Scenic and Emerald Cruises trade sales director Andrea Stafford is joining rival AmaWaterways.
She has been recruited in the newly-created role of UK and Europe sales director and joins on October 2.
Stafford will be responsible for developing new trade distribution channels and overseeing AmaWaterways’ agent focused strategy.
Four business development managers will report to her.
Stafford previously worked for MSC Cruises, Thomas Cook, Royal Caribbean and Tui.
Her appointment came in the wake of former head of UK & Ireland sales Mark Schmitt being made redundant after less than a year in the position.
AmaWaterways managing director Jamie Loizou said:” “I’m delighted that Andrea will be joining the AmaWaterways team.
“The creation of this new role demonstrates our commitment to supporting and growing our sales partnerships in the UK and Europe.
“Andrea has fantastic experience within the industry, is well known and has the skills to help us in the next phase of AmaWaterways’ development.
“With a new ship in Egypt and Colombia launching in 2024 this is an exciting time to join AmaWaterways. I have no doubt she will prove a great asset and I’m very much looking forward to working with her.”
Stafford added: “I’m thrilled about my new role and looking forward to working with Jamie and the team. AmaWaterways is a well-known and well-loved brand and has a reputation for being a great company to do business with. I can’t wait to play a part in ensuring that continues, whilst helping the business to grow.”