Adventure travel operator Wild Frontiers has appointed Tom Cranshaw as head of product to “help drive growth”, including increasing agency sales.
He has more than a decade of experience in the travel industry and has held product management positions at Wendy Wu Tours and Saga Holidays.
Within these roles, Tom managed and contracted a wide range of destinations, including the Far East, India, Australasia and the Caucasus.
Cranshaw joins from destination management company, Vivu Journeys, where he was global head of product.
Marc Leaderman, Wild Frontiers’ product and operations director, said: “Over the last 25 years we’ve seen many changes, including the loss of some of our favourite destinations such as Myanmar (Burma) and Yemen to conflict or instability while at the same time seeing the rise of other destinations like Albania and Saudi Arabia.
“It’s a constantly changing picture and we think Tom is the right person to help us navigate this fluctuating world.
“With his extensive experience of the group and tailormade markets, as well as his insights from working within a DMC, we feel this is a great appointment that will help take the company to new heights.”
Cranshaw added: “With an enviable portfolio of destinations and a team of passionate travel experts, it is a privilege to join the Wild Frontiers family and support the company with its product strategy and future growth.”
Clare Tobin, Wild Frontiers’ managing director, commented: “Wild Frontiers’ innovative product is one of the company’s key differentiators in the adventure market and we are delighted to welcome Tom into this crucial role.”
Natalie Fordham, who handles agency sales for Wild Frontiers, added: “We are seeing an increase in demand from agents for more immersive travel experiences away from the crowds, whether that’s visiting out of season or going to more off-the-beaten track destinations such as Mongolia and Algeria.
“At Wild Frontiers we have always been at the cutting-edge of producing innovative premium adventure itineraries and our new head of product will continue to create product which reflects this changing demand.
“Wild Frontiers is increasing its agency sales team in line with its plan to grow agency sales.”
More: Adventure specialist Wild Frontiers appoints Clare Tobin as MD to drive growth