The Association of Cruise Experts (Ace) has appointed Andy Harmer as its new director.
Harmer, who replaces Flo Powell, is returning to the role he undertook between 2006 and 2009. He will take up his position in November.
He said: “Ace is a well respected brand, supported strongly by agents and cruise lines. With more agents than ever before actively selling cruises, Ace has a pivotal role in providing them with the knowledge and expertise needed to ensure customer expectations are met and exceeded.”
He added: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my two years with The Cruise Portfolio and leave with a clearer understanding of the relationship between agents and cruise lines, knowledge that I can use to further develop and drive Ace forward to ensure the organisation continues to contribute to the growth in cruise holidays.”
Jo Rzymowska, chairman of the Passenger Shipping Association’s cruise section, said: “Ace is in the unique position of being able to provide agents with training on all aspects of cruise holidays. The knowledge they gain from the wide range of training activities is crucial to successfully selling a cruise and Andy has the experience and innovation to deliver the support agents need to grow their business.”
Ace trains and educates travel agents on developments within the cruise sector with more than 22,000 agents undertaking training through cruise expos, face-to-face and online modules over the past year.
The Association works with 38 cruise line members and more than 2,200 travel agencies, as well as colleges and industry associates.