APT & Travelmarvel has internally promoted its existing Business Development Manager (BDM) for Central England, Robin Griffiths, to the newly created role of National Account Manager, a position that he will commence from 1 March 2024. The role further increases the headcount of APT’s sales team, showing the operator’s continued investment in the trade and its steadfast commitment to supporting and driving sales via their much-valued industry partners.

The advertised role received many applications from strong candidates; however, Griffiths’ excellent account management skills, outstanding sales performance and track record, and dynamic approach made him the standout choice.

Griffiths’ responsibilities will include looking after APT & Travelmarvel’s current key accounts, building volume with fledgling partners, and identifying new relationships with wholesalers. The creation of this National Account Manager role is integral to APT & Travelmarvel’s 2024 sales strategy. 70% of business already comes through the trade, and the line has ambitious plans for future growth, it continues to expand its third-party business.

APT & Travelmarvel is currently recruiting for Griffiths’ replacement to take over as BDM Central.

The operator is also recruiting for a BDM to cover Northern England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. After 15 fantastic months with APT, Koral Lipton will be moving in from her role as BDM North at the end of February as she moves into the ocean cruising sector.

Brad Bennetts, APT & Travelmarvel’s Head of Sales & Business Development, said: “We are always seeking to develop and nurture our talent, so I couldn’t be more thrilled to promote Robin Griffiths to the newly created role of National Account Manager. Robin has excelled across the board and is perfectly positioned to help us to drive our aggressive sales strategy forward.

“Whilst I am delighted to see Robin step up, I am very sad that we will be saying goodbye to Koral Lipton as our BDM in the North, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Koral has been a fun and positive member of the APT Family, and we wish her every luck for the future.

“We are actively recruiting for two new Business Development Managers. It is an exciting time to be joining our business, especially considering the remarkable year and record-breaking passenger numbers that we had in 2023. With new ships set to debut this year, more launches planned for the coming years, and with sustained investments in the trade, now is the perfect moment to join our thriving river cruise, small ship, and touring business.”