MSC Cruises bolsters trade support team

MSC Cruises has bolstered its agent-facing team by expanding Claire Smith’s role and making appointments to a pair of new positions. 

Smith’s new title is head of MSC Yacht Club and trade support, while Lauren Perks joins as trade support manager and Laura Wilson as field sales and development manager.

Smith, whose nine years at the cruise line include her most recent role as head of trade support, training and new sales development, will oversee sales for MSC Cruises’ “ship-within-a-ship” concept as part of her expanded remit.

Antonio Paradiso, vice-president of international sales at MSC Cruises, said: “As we grow our business, these new and expanded roles will strengthen the support that we already provide to our trade partners, who are central to our success in the UK.

“We are delighted to welcome Laura and Lauren to the MSC Cruises family and congratulate Claire on her new role.

“We are seeing high demand for premium and luxury holidays, and as the UK is the second-largest source market globally for MSC Yacht Club, this is a key area for trade partners to focus on.”

Perks, who has worked in the travel industry for 10 years, will report to Smith, while Wilson will report to head of sales Alyshia Bartlett. 

Wilson’s previous experience in the travel sector includes roles as head of business development and national sales manager.

MSC Cruises’ trade team now stands at 21 people across the UK, Ireland and the trade support team.