HX Expeditions expands UK sales team in bid to grow trade relationships

HX Expeditions has expanded its UK sales team through the appointment of Matt Irwin as trade partnerships manager EMEA and Henry McCoid-Filby as inside sales executive.

Irwin, who has more than 25 years of experience in the travel industry, most recently worked at Royal Caribbean, while McCoid-Filby previously worked at Mundy Cruising and Hays Travel.

Nathaniel Sherborne, senior vice-president and managing director for EMEA, Australia and New Zealand and global sales enablement at HX Expeditions, said: “These new appointments mark another step in HX Expeditions’ ambitious growth strategy as we build towards our 130th anniversary next year. 

“Matt and Henry both bring exceptional experience and energy to the team, and their expertise will help us continue to grow our trade relationships and reinforce HX Expeditions’ position as a leader in expedition cruising.”

The appointments bring the UK and northern Europe sales team to seven members. It is led by Mark Walter, who was recently promoted to sales director for northern Europe.

Irwin began his career as a travel agent before spending two decades in account management roles for airlines including Lufthansa, Qatar Airways and Air France–KLM.

At Royal Caribbean, he managed markets across the Middle East, Africa and parts of eastern Europe.

In his new role, he will focus on building and strengthening partnerships across emerging markets including Ireland, Italy, Spain, central and eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa, while also supporting the UK market. 

McCoid-Filby, who will focus on the UK, will be tasked with supporting travel partners and driving sales performance.