Charlie Cooper transitions from US Airtours to enhance trade sales for Inghams and Santa’s Lapland.
- Inghams appoints a new business development manager to strengthen regional partnerships.
- Cooper’s extensive industry experience aims to bolster brand presence in Northern England and Scotland.
- The strategic placement of Cooper intends to drive product growth through hands-on engagement with agents.
- Cooper’s role focuses on education and support for agents, emphasising Inghams’ Walking product.
In a strategic move designed to bolster its trade partnerships, Inghams has appointed Charlie Cooper as business development manager for Northern England and Scotland. Charlie Cooper’s transition from US Airtours marks a significant step towards amplifying trade sales for both Inghams and Santa’s Lapland. With a career in the travel industry dating back to 1988, including roles at Wendy Wu and Hoseasons, Cooper brings a wealth of experience and industry connections to his new position.
Cooper’s primary task involves the growth and promotion of the Hotel Plan UK brands across a region stretching from Nottinghamshire to Scotland and spanning Lincolnshire to North Wales. His role emphasises not just the expansion of Inghams’ presence but also fostering strong relationships with travel agents through direct engagement. This hands-on approach includes visiting agents, conducting ‘walk and talks’, hosting familiarisation trips, and delivering comprehensive training programs.
Inghams’ head of agency sales, Julie Franklin, expressed optimism regarding Cooper’s appointment, noting his well-established reputation in the industry. “We are so excited for Charlie to be joining our agency sales team,” Franklin stated. His affinity for walking and skiing, alongside his professional expertise, is expected to introduce a unique dynamic to the team, particularly when educating agent partners and promoting the Inghams Walking product.
The company has set an ambitious strategy to strengthen its trade relationships both on the high street and within the homeworking sector. Cooper’s role is integral to this vision, focusing on expanding the brand’s reach and ensuring robust educational support for agents. The alignment of Cooper in the north, alongside Sasha Darling in the south and the support of new partnership executive Frankie Welchman, positions Inghams well to drive increased business and sales through its trade channels.
Charlie Cooper’s expertise and strategic location are set to significantly enhance Inghams’ trade sales and industry partnerships.
