Kuoni sales director Helen Roberts is stepping down in the autumn after 20 years with the operator.
She is to set up her own consultancy business helping sales leaders in all industries create high performing teams.
Roberts, who started as a sales consultant in Manchester, then moved into trade relations before becoming sales director in 2016, leaves in October.
She was credited as being pivotal in setting up Kuoni’s retail division, opening the company’s original stores in Bluewater and Milton Keynes.
Managing director Mark Duguid said: “I personally want to pay tribute to Helen for all she’s done to create one of the most outstanding sales teams in the travel industry. She has a unique style and contagious energy we are certainly going to miss.
“Although they are big shoes to fill, I will be looking to replace Helen’s role and it’s important that we take the time to find someone not only with the right experience, but who will fit into our culture.”
Roberts added: “This has been such a hard decision for me but this is the right time to explore new opportunities and take on some new challenges.
“I am so proud of my career at Kuoni and I’ve been so lucky to work with so many talented, inspirational people along the way.
“Under Mark’s leadership, I’m confident the Kuoni brand will continue to go from strength to strength and my focus for the next six months will be on business as usual as we put plans in place to evolve the business for a new era.”