The former UK managing director of Cruise1st, Dale Sourbutts, has set up his own homeworking business with the Advantage Travel Partnership’s Advantage Managed Services model.
His agency, called New Travel Holidays, is focused on selling holidays from Advantage’s preferred suppliers, with a strong emphasis on cruise.
Dale Sourbutts has worked in travel for 30 years and is returning to the industry after leaving in December 2021 to be a stay-at-home dad.
Based in Burnley, his career began at Althams Travel, where he spent seven years.
He spent the next three years backpacking around the world, then joined the cruise sector, working for MyTravel and The Cruise Store, which later became Cruise Thomas Cook.
Over the next decade, he worked his way up to become sales centre trading manager, before joining cruise specialist agency Cruise1st, eventually becoming MD in 2019.
“After navigating the turbulence of the pandemic, I made a life-changing decision: to step away from the industry and focus on something even more important – being the main carer for my then seven-year-old daughter,” he said.
“It was an incredible experience, and I feel incredibly lucky to have had that time with her.”
He said he is now setting up his business so he can continue his flexible lifestyle and returning to the industry that he “loves and knows so well”.
“With my background, cruising and luxury travel will play a big role in what we offer, alongside ski holidays, a personal passion of mine,” he said.
“Looking ahead, I have big plans for New Travel. We’ll be expanding into niche markets and bringing onboard self-employed homeworkers who, like me, want the freedom and flexibility that working for yourself offers.
“Choosing to partner with the Advantage Travel Partnership was a no-brainer.
“I know and respect the people involved, the model is simple and effective, and most importantly, they genuinely support you in growing your business.
“It’s not just about getting you through the door, it’s about building something long-term together. For anyone considering starting their own travel business, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them.
“Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about delivering exceptional travel experiences and driving operational excellence. Now, I’m excited to bring that passion into my own business, reconnect with old colleagues, and meet new ones who share the same love for travel.”
More: Cruise1st names UK managing director [August 2019]