First Class Holidays has recruited Vicky Hart-Edwards in the new role of director of operations.
Hart Edwards, who was more than 20 years’ industry experience, is tasked with streamlining operations and driving efficiencies at the long-haul specialist tour operator.
Her appointment follows the news that chief operating office and co-founder Sharon Mason is to retire in August after almost 30 years with the business.
Hart Edwards was previously head of operations and experience at homeworking group Not Just Travel and prior to that worked for The Global Travel Group and Triton Rooms.
Managing director Daniel Gathercole said: “We are delighted to recruit someone of Vicky’s calibre and personality.
“Vicky will look after business operations and ensure we continue to improve our service and speed to market for agents.
“We have improved so much in the last year, however we need to ensure we are constantly looking at new initiatives and are ahead of the game.”
Hart-Edwards said she was excited to be joining the operator, adding: “I look forward to partnering with department leaders to streamline operations and drive efficiencies, implement innovative technologies for an enhanced customer journey, introduce new destinations and further nurture and expand our partnerships within the trade.”
Product manager Lorna Curry has also been promoted to the new role of head of product while Keir Ashley has been promoted to product manager for South Africa and the Indian Ocean.
The operator now has a four-strong product team, which also includes product manager Ali Hampton and product executive Beth Fallon.
Meanwhile, head of reservations Darren McCormick has been promoted to look after commercial aviation and oversee the operator’s airline partnerships.