Adrian James departs Gold Medal after 22 years

Gold Medal product and commercial director Adrian James has left the business after 22 years to “embrace a new challenge”.

James, whose remit also spanned Pure Luxury, Cruise Plus and Incredible Journeys, progressed from Gold Medal’s sales centre to hold various roles until joining managing director Simon Applebaum’s leadership team in 2022.

Applebaum called James an “outstanding colleague to many”, adding: “The commitment, dedication and passion he has shown to Gold Medal and our B2B brands for over two decades is highly commendable, and I thank him for being an exceptional part of my leadership team, a colleague and a friend.”

Gold Medal said the recruitment process to replace James is ongoing. Until the vacancy is filled, the product team will report into marketing director Sarah Lancashire, with the commercial team reporting into trade partnerships director Karen Fletcher.

James said: “I am incredibly proud of my time with Gold Medal and grateful for the opportunities I have had during my time with the company, where I have had the privilege of working alongside some of the most talented and passionate people in the travel industry.

“The decision to leave has not been an easy one, however I believe this is the right time for me to embrace a new challenge and explore the next chapter in my career.

“I will continue to champion and celebrate Gold Medal’s ongoing success, and I am thankful to Simon and the team for their ongoing support.”

James joined Gold Medal in 2004, having previously worked at Princess Cruises.