Barrhead Travel has promoted head of commercial Caroline Donaldson to product and commercial director.
The newly-created role follows a senior management restructure at the Scottish-based travel agency chain, in which Jacqueline Dobson became president in January.
Donaldson will oversee commercial agreements, product development and business development for all areas of the business, including cruise.
The promotion follows the departure of the agency’s cruise business development director Catriona Parsons, who left at the end of May after 14 years with the business.
Donaldson, who has been with the business more than 16 years, started at Barrhead Travel as a part-time longhaul consultant. In 2007, she was appointed business development manager.
She said: “I am looking forward to the next chapter that this role will bring, including working alongside our cruise partners. The creation of the position is a reflection of our strength within the UK market as we continue to expand and acknowledges the developments we have made in terms of product enhancements and commercial negotiations.”
Dobson said: “This promotion is testament to Caroline’s unwavering commitment, passion for the company and flair for relationships which has ultimately driven the business development division forward over the years.
“At Barrhead Travel, we are committed to growing our people from within and Caroline is an excellent example of how hard work and talent is recognised and nurtured.”
Earlier this year, Barrhead Travel revealed plans for a new internal Talent Management Programme, due to launch in late summer. It aims to ensure around 75% of promotions are filled internally.
More: Sharon Munro to leave Barrhead Travel [Dec 18]
Barrhead’s Catriona Parsons steps down [May 19]
Big Interview: Jacqueline Dobson, president of Barrhead Travel [Feb 19]
