Richard Forde ascends to a pivotal role at Newmarket Holidays.
- Forde’s leadership to drive growth and strategic partnerships.
- Announcement focuses on the expansion within the touring sector.
- Forde set to recruit a partnerships manager to strengthen ties.
- Long-serving Forde praised for his dedication and market insight.
Richard Forde has been elevated to the position of head of trade sales and partnerships at Newmarket Holidays, marking a significant advancement in his career and highlighting his pivotal role within the company. With responsibilities already encompassing the management of a trade team and enhancing agency sales across the UK, Forde’s new title underscores an expanded focus on creating strategic partnerships, which are integral to Newmarket’s ambitious growth aspirations. The move comes as part of the company’s broader strategy to innovate and expand its product offerings, positioning itself firmly within the competitive escorted tour sector.
In his newly defined role, Forde’s immediate priorities include the recruitment of a dedicated partnerships manager. This new recruit will be instrumental in generating and nurturing partnerships across various channels, aiming to amplify Newmarket’s influence and reach within the industry. Forde expressed enthusiasm for this new challenge, stating, “I’m delighted for this opportunity and to take on the next challenge at Newmarket Holidays. This is a competitive sector and we’re not standing still, with new partnerships and new product innovation at the heart of our strategy.” His words reflect a forward-looking vision, intent on shaping the company’s future trajectory alongside its talented team.
David Sharman, the chief commercial officer at Newmarket Holidays, has worked closely with Forde for the past 14 years and lauds his unwavering commitment and profound understanding of the touring sector. Sharman described Forde’s efforts as consistently recognised by partners and pivotal to the company’s operations and success. “I’m looking forward to working closely with him in the future to continue the excellent work and results we have experienced, particularly over the last couple of years,” noted Sharman, underscoring the significance of Forde’s contributions to Newmarket’s growth.
Beyond his role at Newmarket, Forde is a prominent figure within the touring and adventure sector, serving as the chairman of Tipto and formerly the chairman of the Atas Trade Engagement committee. These roles position him as a key influencer, not merely within his company but across the wider industry, where his leadership and insights are highly valued. This expanded remit is anticipated to bolster Newmarket’s presence and influence within the market further, leveraging Forde’s existing networks and expertise to drive continued success.
Richard Forde’s promotion is set to strategically enhance Newmarket’s position and drive its ambitious growth plans forward.
