Newmarket Holidays has appointed Wayne Szczambura as account manager for the northeast as it reveals plans for new launches in 2025.
Szczambura joins the tour operator on September 30 and will replace Gemma Walker, who has left the company to join Bedsonline as a key account manager for the Irish market.
Szczambura has more than 20 years’ experience in the travel industry, including roles at Tui, First Choice, Animation World and Balkan Holidays.
More: Bedsonline recruits Gemma Walker as key account manager
He will be responsible for current and new agent partnerships across the northeast of England, working alongside a team of six account and partnership managers at Newmarket Holidays.
He will report into Hayley Morris, who joins the business in October as head of trade sales and partnerships.
Chief commercial officer David Sharman described Szczambura as a “perfect fit” for the tour operator, with a “zest for travel and people” as well a “proven track record”.
He said: “His recruitment further strengthens our exceptional trade team, which is packed with passion, energy and enthusiasm.”
Sharman said Szczambura’s appointment came as the operator planned to launch new tours and technology next year.
“2024 has been another fabulous year for trade sales and the appointments of Hayley and Wayne show our desire to continue investing and developing our support for trade partners and business owners so that we can grow the escorted touring sector for all our benefit. We’re already looking ahead to 2025 when we will be bringing new itineraries, new visions for touring and new tech to the market,” he said.
Szczambura said he was looking forward to working with a growing, trade-focused brand.
“It was clear from our discussions how much they love the trade,” he said, adding: “I can’t wait to get started, meet the team and showcase the fantastic portfolio to agents. There are exciting plans for 2025 and the Newmarket Holidays team has a great reputation, so I’m looking forward to being a part of that and helping us all achieve continued success.”