Hurtigruten recruits new sales director from Celebrity Cruises

Matthew Stuart is moving from Celebrity Cruises to join Hurtigruten as UK and emerging markets sales director.

He will lead the Norwegian coastal voyage company’s trade sales strategy from early April.

The appointment follows James Howlett moving to Solmar Villas from his role as UK & EMEA sales director at Hurtigruten.

Stuart has spent four years at Celebrity Cruises, most recently as strategic account manager responsible for several of the brand’s largest trade partnerships across the UK and Ireland.

He previously held senior commercial roles at Club Med across the UK, Ireland and Scandinavia, having started his career in touring with Collette Tours.

Hurtigruten UK and emerging markets sales and marketing vice president Hayley Moore said: “We’re delighted to welcome Matthew to the team at such an exciting time for the business. 

“His strategic mindset, commercial acumen and genuine passion for both the travel industry and our brand stood out immediately.

"With a proven track record of leading high-performing sales teams and extensive experience across the travel sector and UK trade landscape, he will play an important role in deepening our partnerships and driving the next phase of growth for Hurtigruten.”

Stuart added: “I’ve admired Hurtigruten for a long time. It’s a brand with a remarkable heritage and a very clear sense of purpose and identity in the travel industry.

“What excites me most is the opportunity to work closely with such a talented team and travel trade partners across the UK and emerging markets, with the aim of introducing an even wider audience to the unique experiences Hurtigruten offers in the Nordics.

“Hurtigruten has strong momentum, and I’m looking forward to listening to partners, building on those relationships and working with the team to drive the next phase of growth together.”