Riviera Travel has strengthened its team by appointing Ralph Uhlemann as Business Development Manager (BDM) for Ireland, supporting broader market goals.
- Ralph Uhlemann, with 15 years of industry experience, brings vital expertise to Riviera Travel’s Irish market strategy.
- Uhlemann transitions from Best4Travel, where he served as a senior travel consultant, to enhance trade relations in Ireland.
- Reporting to Steven Taylor, Uhlemann will leverage his industry connections to boost Riviera’s brand presence.
- Riviera’s fleet expansion plans include a new ship slated for 2026, coinciding with its ambitious river cruise programme.
Riviera Travel has strategically enhanced its trade support by naming Ralph Uhlemann as the Business Development Manager for Ireland, effective from 30 September. This move aims to solidify the company’s presence within the Irish market, particularly through strengthening ties with travel agents. Uhlemann’s extensive 15-year career in the travel industry endows him with the experience necessary to navigate and cultivate these partnerships effectively.
Ralph Uhlemann’s appointment follows his tenure at Best4Travel as a senior travel consultant. Prior to this, he served as a business travel consultant for TakeTwo Travel Solutions, thereby aiding his skill in formulating long-term relationships in the travel sector. His primary responsibilities at Riviera will include developing robust connections with travel agents across Ireland, a vital part of Riviera Travel’s growth strategy.
Reporting directly to Steven Taylor, the international sales manager, Uhlemann is set to apply his substantial industry knowledge to expand Riviera Travel’s market visibility and engagement. His expertise is hoped to fuel the development of what Stuart Milan, trading director at Riviera, describes as ‘industry-leading trade support’ specifically tailored for Ireland-based travel agents. This initiative seeks to not only increase awareness of the Riviera brand but also foster mutually advantageous relationships that align with both parties’ desires for sustained success.
The company’s outlook is not solely limited to personnel expansion. Riviera Travel has announced plans to introduce the new ship, Riviera Resplendence, in 2026. This vessel will enhance their largest-ever river cruise programme, complemented by sister ship Riviera Radiance and anticipated to feature an innovative restaurant concept, Mosaic. The company’s expansion exemplifies a concerted effort to align its maritime offerings with heightened customer expectations and evolving market demands.
Riviera Travel’s strategic initiatives, including Uhlemann’s appointment and fleet expansion, underline its commitment to enhancing its market position and trade support in Ireland.
