The Firebird Partnership has announced the successful exit of its inland cruising specialist, French Waterways.
- James and Ruth Newcombe, founders of French Waterways, will guide a six-month transition period.
- Rosie Mansfield joins the board as chief executive, adding leadership strength.
- The Newcombes will shift to ambassador roles to promote company and river cruising.
- The partnership sees this as an opportunity to grow and deepen client relationships.
The Firebird Partnership has declared their strategic success by managing an exit for French Waterways, an inland cruising specialist. This move is poised to position French Waterways for enhanced growth and development opportunities in the travel industry. The announcement underscores the intent to refine offerings and foster deeper connections with clients and partners.
Founders James and Ruth Newcombe are integral to the transition, leading a comprehensive six-month process to ensure seamless continuity. Post-transition, they will assume ambassador roles to continue advocating for the business and the unique experiences of river cruising in France. Their long-standing commitment has been recognised as vital to maintaining the brand’s esteemed reputation.
Rosie Mansfield, joining the board as Chief Executive, represents a strategic infusion of leadership and vision. Her enthusiasm to engage with supplier partners and the global clientele is seen as a catalyst for future growth. Mansfield’s statement reflects optimism about working with a dedicated team and esteemed clients, promising an invigorated approach to service delivery.
The partnership with Firebird is credited with providing French Waterways the much-needed blend of industry understanding and client-centric focus. Co-founder Ian Finlay’s appointment as non-executive chairman signals a commitment to leveraging this strategic alliance for robust growth and client satisfaction.
James Newcombe highlighted the importance of selecting a partner like Firebird, which aligns with French Waterways’ ideals of support and dedication. His assurances of excitement for the future resonate with a promise of sustained quality and innovation in offerings. The business’s expansion ambitions align well with the partnership’s capabilities.
Initially formed by Ian Finlay and Stewart Lambert in 2020, the Firebird Partnership was envisioned as a consulting and corporate finance advisory service. Their expertise spans the travel, hospitality, leisure, and education markets, a diversification that enables them to effectively drive growth for their clients. The alliance with French Waterways is another step in extending their influence in these sectors.
The transition reflects a promising strategic advancement for French Waterways under the new leadership and partnership.
