Blue Diamond Resorts has appointed a new business development manager for the UK and Ireland.
Louisa Smith, who has more than 25 years’ experience sector-wide including brand representation and sales, replaces Luke Swarbook, who left in July to join Travelopia as trade manager.
She has been tasked with managing all trade enquiries and maintaining awareness of Blue Diamond’s property portfolio and locations.
As part of the role she is responsible for boosting travel agent engagement in the Royalton Rewards scheme, key face to face events, educating agents on each brand’s product, both online and in person, and organising fam trips, research groups, workshops and sales missions.
Blue Diamond Resorts sales and business development senior director Todd Kirlik said the appointment was at a “busy and truly exciting time” for the company.
He added: “Our brands are expanding, and we have lots to bring to the trade in the coming months so her skills and experience will make a valuable addition to the team.
“We are committed to supporting the UK and Irish trade and having Louisa now in the driving seat will ensure we continue to strengthen our agent relationships, supporting them in their quest to sell our properties.”
Smith started her career in public relations at Thomas Cook before moving into sales, marketing and business development for hotels in the UK and in the Caribbean. She returned to work in the tour operator and online divisions of Thomas Cook, then set up her own representation company, and more recently worked in brand representation, working with JA Resorts and Hidden Doorways.
She said: “I am delighted to be joining the Blue Diamond Resorts family and continuing the great work that the team have accomplished. The Caribbean was my first love when I started out in travel and so the Royalton and Planet Hollywood brands will be a privilege to promote and sell.
“I’m looking forward to getting out on the road to meet all of our fabulous agent friends, and of course bring lots more into the fold, promoting all things Royalton and Planet Hollywood, especially our amazing rewards programme.”
Smith started in the role at Blue Diamond this week.