FORMER First Choice retail division managing director
Peter Shanks has returned to the industry in a new role with cruiseline Cunard.
Shanks, who was axed from First Choice in October last
year after 20 years in the industry, has joined Cunard as senior vice-president
for Europe.
The new position has been created as Cunard prepares
to increase capacity with the construction of two new vessels.
Currently, Cunard’s two ships, the QE2 and Caronia,
have a combined capacity of 2,500 passengers. That will more than double in
2004 when the company launches the 2,620-berth Queen Mary 2. In addition, the
1,968-berth New Cunarder, which will operate exclusively for the UK market,
will be launched in 2005.
Cunard president and chief operating officer Pam
Conover said: “We have created this role as a result of the growth we are
looking for from the UK.”
Shanks said he will be working closely with
independents and multiples to help generate sales for the new Cunard ships.
He added: “With Cunard looking to triple capacity over
the next few years, I can bring a lot of knowledge from my tour operating and
agency experience on how to approach the UK travel trade.
“The main aim is to drive and increase our
distribution around the UK and I know all the right buttons to push.”
At the time of his departure
from First Choice, Shanks vowed to return to the industry in a senior role and
has been carrying out consultancy work in the meantime.