Claire Hodgkin (pictured right) has taken on the newly created role of business development manager for the South West and South Wales at Newmarket Holidays.
She joins the operator with 16 years’ experience in the industry and previously held regional sales manager and trade sales executive roles at Saga Holidays, as well as positions at Thomas Cook, Sainsbury’s Bank and Travelex.
She has returned to the industry after a two-and-a-half year hiatus and will report into head of trade sales Richard Forde.
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“I am over the moon to be returning to the travel industry which I have always loved, and cannot wait to see my agent partners in the South West once more,” Hodgkin said.
The creation of the new trade sales team role bring the Newmarket Holidays’ on-the-road team to six, with Amy Burt also returning to the company from maternity leave to cover both Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Forde said: “Newmarket Holidays is delighted to welcome Claire back into the industry she loves after she had time away during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“This is not only good news for us but it’s good to see expertise returning to the industry.
“Her vast experience and industry knowledge are a wonderful addition to the already strong team and with Amy returning full time too, this puts us in an even better position to help service our agent partners.”
Managing director of Miles Morgan Travel Mandy Shillito works in the South West and has welcomed her back to the industry.
“We’re delighted that Claire is returning to the industry and will be working with us again in the southwest,” she said.