Riviera restructure sees Amanda Docherty become new UK head of trade 

Amanda Docherty has stepped up to become UK head of trade at Riviera Travel after Vicky Billing was promoted from the role in June.

 

The move comes as the river cruise and touring specialist expands its trade team, with new roles being introduced to provide greater support to agents.

 

The changes “are a recognition that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work and accounts need to be managed in a more strategic way,” a company statement said.

 

Docherty, currently national sales manager for home-based agents, joined the company in 2024 with 30 years of industry experience.

 

Billing was named director of trade and partnerships UK and Ireland two months ago.

 

Other changes as part of a strategic restructure sees national sales manager Claire Hills assume the newly created role of strategic account manager, reporting to Docherty. 

 

Lloyd Morris has been promoted to strategic account manager, reporting to Docherty.

 

The remaining five key account managers will also report to Docherty, providing “robust regional support” across the UK.

 

Ireland county manager Carrie Day, Country Manager Ireland, will continue to report to Billing.

 

Docherty said: “We have an exceptionally talented team of trade account managers, and I’m energised by the opportunity ahead.

 

“Over the years, Vicky and I have built a strong, trusting partnership and our complementary strengths and shared values are what make this transition so exciting. 

“Vicky is an inspiring leader who always puts people first, and I’m proud to continue that legacy while also going on my own leadership journey. 

 

"These are exciting times for Riviera Travel as we continue to evolve and make it even easier for our partners to do business with us.”

 

Billing said: “We’ve had two incredibly successful years, and we’re determined to build on that momentum. But we also recognise that one size doesn’t fit all. 

 

“Introducing two senior strategic account manager roles allows us to tailor our approach to the needs of different partners and regions. 

 

“These changes are designed to improve business efficiency and ultimately lead to a better product and service for both our customers and our agent partners - it’s all about making Riviera even easier to do business with.”

 

She added: “Following my own promotion earlier this year, it was important we put in place the right structure to succeed my previous role - one that not only supports Amanda as head of trade, but also strengthens the team as a whole. 

 

“We’ll also be recruiting a new key account manager for home-based agents to continue the great work Amanda has led in this area. 

 

“In the meantime, Amanda will continue to support the home-based agents to ensure continuity and care for the team.

 

“With Claire and Lloyd stepping into their new roles and further appointments in the pipeline, supported by our fantastic key account manager team, I’m confident we’re well placed for continued growth and even stronger trade partnerships. 

 

“Claire has demonstrated outstanding strategic thinking and resilience; this new role is a natural progression for her. 

 

“Lloyd has been a standout performer since day one, and I’m excited to see both of them thrive in their new positions.

 

“I never take the support of our trade partners for granted, but I also know that kind of loyalty is earned by having the right people in the right roles. 

 

"I’m proud to lead a dynamic and diverse team of 24, where individuality is celebrated and collaboration is second nature. 

 

“Riviera isn’t just a company; it’s a community, and that’s our true strength. As I’ve always said: ‘People buy people’."