Fred Holidays has hired Joseph Grimley as a business development manager in a team that has doubled in size in the space of a couple of weeks.
Grimley, whose appointment comes after that of Paul Mellon, has more than 30 years’ experience in the travel industry.
His most recent role in the sector was as Scenic Group’s director of sales, but he has spent the last couple of years away from travel.
More: Fred Holidays releases first brochure featuring all product types
“I’m very excited to be returning to the industry that I’ve loved for more than 30 years – I’ve missed it,” said Grimley, who will start his new role on Monday, February 12, and join a team that has grown from two to four.
Reporting to Laura Wilson, head of business development, Grimley’s main focus will be supporting the company’s strategic growth and helping general sales agent partners including Amadeus River Cruises.
He will also work closely with the business development team to optimise new business opportunities through active accounts, expand distribution reach and increase brand awareness.
Before his role with Scenic Group, Grimley held positions with Riviera Travel and Page & Moy Travel Group.
He said: “Fred Holidays’ incredible portfolio of products, along with their pedigree and people, really appeals and is the perfect fit for my experience.
“I can’t wait to join the amazing team and get out and about introducing agents and their customers to one of the industry’s best-kept secrets.”
Tricia Birmingham, director of tour operations, said: “We are delighted to welcome Joseph who has over 35 years’ experience in many specific sectors of the travel industry, most notably cruise and river.
“This experience will prove invaluable as we continue to grow and support our trade partners with the addition and creation of a new trade support team.”
She added: “We are currently trading with a double-digit increase in business from trade partners, and our aim is to support this increase by expanding our team while also developing existing and new partnerships further.”