APT & Travelmarvel has strategically appointed new business development managers to enhance its trade support.
- Leiza Sullivan takes on the role of business development manager for central England, focusing on relationship-building with key trade partners.
- Elaine O’Brien joins as the first business development manager for Travelmarvel in Ireland, bringing a wealth of experience.
- These appointments are part of APT’s broader strategy to strengthen its agent support network across the UK and Ireland.
- A third appointment for northern England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland is anticipated soon, indicating continued growth.
APT & Travelmarvel, renowned for its expertise in river cruise and touring, has initiated pivotal changes to its trade support network by appointing two new business development managers. These strategic appointments aim to enhance relationships with trade partners and identify new business avenues. Leiza Sullivan will spearhead efforts in central England, a decision reflective of her extensive industry experience, having dedicated the last decade to nurturing partnerships and growth in the cruise sector.
Leiza Sullivan assumes the role of business development manager for central England, following Robin Griffiths’ promotion to national account manager at the beginning of the year. Her responsibilities are comprehensive, including the cultivation of robust partnerships with key trade stakeholders, exploration of fresh business opportunities, management of third-party retail accounts, and agent training delivery. Sullivan’s extensive background, notably her recent five-year tenure at Avalon River Cruises, equips her well for these multifaceted duties.
In Ireland, Elaine O’Brien’s appointment as business development manager marks a significant step for APT’s sister brand, Travelmarvel, in aligning its strategic goals with local market needs. Celebrated for her 30-year journey in travel, O’Brien’s portfolio encompasses notable achievements, including her leadership at TheTravelShop.ie and TheCruiseShop.ie. This new leadership role reflects her broad expertise and deep understanding of the cruise tourism landscape.
APT’s overarching ambition to fortify its presence in the UK and Ireland is underscored by its plans to appoint an additional business development manager for the northern territories, comprising northern England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. This anticipated appointment signifies the company’s commitment to expanding its influence and fostering a supportive trade environment for its partners.
A statement from the head of sales for UK and Europe, Bennetts, underscores the company’s dedication to assembling a formidable sales team. “We are thrilled to welcome Leiza and Elaine to the APT & Travelmarvel family, and to unveil our third new BDM hire soon,” Bennetts states, emphasising the deliberate efforts to recruit individuals whose professionalism and passion align with APT’s values. He concludes, “Our goal was to create the best sales team in the market; with these expert BDMs in place, and the support of our call centre, marketing and design experts, I can confidently say that we have achieved just that.”
APT’s strategic appointments reflect its commitment to strengthening trade partnerships and enhancing its market presence.
