Richard Forde has been promoted to the new role of head of trade sales and partnerships at Newmarket Holidays.
Forde, who is already responsible for managing a trade team of seven and building agency sales across the UK, will now also focus on creating strategic partnerships that support the escorted tour specialist’s “ambitious growth plans”, said the operator.
Forde will first look to recruit a dedicated partnerships manager to concentrate on generating new partnerships across all channels.
Forde said: “I’m delighted for this opportunity and to take on the next challenge at Newmarket Holidays.
“This is a competitive sector and we’re not standing still, with new partnerships and new product innovation at the heart of our strategy. I’m looking forward to further influencing the future direction of the company and working with our talented team to achieve our goals.”
David Sharman, chief commercial officer at Newmarket Holidays, who has worked alongside Forde for the past 14 years, said: “Richard’s commitment to Newmarket Holidays is evident and his knowledge of the touring sector and relationships are market leading. His efforts are consistently recognised by our partners and are pivotal to our operations and success.
“I’m looking forward to working closely with him in the future to continue the excellent work and results we have experienced, particularly over the last couple of years.”
In addition to his role at Newmarket Holidays, Forde works to expand the voice of the touring and adventure sector as the chairman of Tipto, and formerly as chairman of the Atas Trade Engagement committee.