Scenic managing director Chris Townson has left the business, and will be replaced by Colin Downing who has been appointed UK general manager.
A statement from the river cruise and touring specialist said Downing would be responsible for the day to day running and management of the UK business.
It added that Townson had left the business “with immediate effect to pursue other interests”. No explanation was given for Townson’s abrupt departure.
Anna Wolfsteiner, senior vice-president for international sales & distribution, said: “Colin is a very experienced manager, who has recently been working for us on a number of group projects and I am pleased to announce his appointment to head up the UK team.”
Downing added: “As one of the world’s leading tour and river cruise companies Scenic and Emerald Waterways are a very exciting business and one I’m proud to be part of. We have some great people in the team alongside best in class products.”
Downing has more than 35 years’ experience, including senior management positions for travel and leisure brands including Riviera Travel, The Late Rooms Group, Merlin Entertainments, Legoland and MyTravel.