Regent Seven Seas Cruises has strategically expanded its UK business development team.
- This move responds to a significant rise in demand for luxury cruising.
- A key appointment is Harriet Smith, enhancing the team under Ed Lang’s leadership.
- The addition aims to boost support for agents promoting both current and future fleets.
- Educational and promotional resources are being enhanced to support this development.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises has undertaken a strategic expansion of its business development team in response to the surging demand for luxury cruise services. The company has specifically targeted the UK market, acknowledging the growing interest in high-end cruising experiences. This initiative is expected to bolster support for agents, providing them with comprehensive resources to effectively promote Regent’s current fleet and the two newly announced ships set to launch in 2026 and 2029.
Central to this organisational enhancement is the appointment of Harriet Smith, who joins the team as business development support, reporting directly to the business development manager, Caroline Moody. Smith’s role is part of a broader three-pronged team structure led by Ed Lang, director of strategic accounts and business development. Her expertise, which combines her experience in cruise reservations at Norwegian Cruise Line with a background in luxury fashion brands, makes her ideally suited to drive Regent’s expansion efforts.
Paul Beale, the vice president of sales UK at Regent Seven Seas Cruises, highlights the strategic intent behind Smith’s appointment. “Having earned her cruising stripes working in reservations for Norwegian Cruise Line, following a career working with luxury fashion brands, Harriet embodies the blend of cruise and luxury goods experience that aligns perfectly with Regent,” he states. Her task involves not only re-engaging with agents who have previously partnered with Regent but also collaborating closely with proactive agents while seeking out new luxury-focused agents and operators.
In addition to strengthening the business development team, Regent is augmenting its educational and promotional tools. The introduction of Regent University, along with training webinars and destination videos, forms a part of this initiative aimed at inspiring and educating agents. Furthermore, an exclusive Facebook page serves as a platform for agents to access up-to-date tips and campaign information. These resources are intended to empower agents with the necessary tools to thrive in the competitive luxury cruise market.
This proactive enhancement of Regent’s business development resources aligns with the noticeable uptick in luxury cruise demand.
