Cruise.co.uk sales and operations director Shane Parker has joined Diverse School Travel, following the move by two other senior industry executives to the specialist tour operator.
Parker, who left cruise.co.uk at the end of December, has worked for more than 20 years in the industry including just shy of eight years at the cruise travel agency and roles at Tui and PGL Travel.
He has been appointed sales and operations director at the schools operator, tasked with overseeing its commercial and operational teams, leading operator development and maximising efficiency as the company plots long term growth.
The news follows the appointment of former Dawson & Sanderson boss Chris Harrison as chief executive and former Kuoni managing director Derek Jones as non-executive director, both announced in October last year.
His appointment is part of a continuous plan to expand the business while maintaining its product and culture and comes after a decision by co-founder Jamie Gardiner to move to a part-time position as chair on the company’s board.
Gardiner, who helped set up the company more than 11 years ago, said: “As we look to 2025, we are delighted to welcome individuals with such extensive experience across the travel industry into these new strategic roles. Shane is extremely passionate and determined, and I know he is ready to throw himself into the position to accelerate our commercial and operational growth.
“Having worked for some of the world’s leading travel groups, we’re looking forward to seeing the impact he can have on Diverse School Travel’s pioneering plans for the year ahead and beyond.”
Parker said: “I am thrilled to take on this new role for the company. Diverse School Travel is at an exciting point in their growth journey, and having the opportunity to be a fundamental part of that is incredibly motivating.
“It’s important to me that the fantastic culture and energy of the business evolves further as we develop and expand. I’m looking forward to utilising skills and experiences from my previous roles to help take the brand to new heights.”
Diverse School Travel operates curriculum-led school trips worldwide, offering bespoke programmes for schools and educational institutions that focus on cultural immersion, academic enrichment and personal growth.