APT has appointed Michelle Ryan as its first country manager for Ireland, as part of the company’s plan to boost trade business for its Travelmarvel brand in this market.
Selling only through the trade in Ireland, Ryan will report to Brad Bennetts, APT & Travelmarvel’s head of sales and business development.
She is tasked with developing existing relationships and new partnerships with travel agents and retail partners.
Plans are also being made to offer dedicated fam trips for Irish agents in 2025.
Ryan has more than 10 years of experience in the travel industry, especially in business development and sales.
In her previous role as sales development manager at Royal Caribbean International, she built partnerships with cruise specialists, consortia and multiples across Ireland, supporting them with training, events, marketing and incentives.
Bennetts said: “After successfully launching Travelmarvel in Ireland over 18 months ago, we are thrilled to welcome Michelle to the role of Ireland country manager.
“Michelle is perfectly positioned to push the brand forward – her contacts and wealth of experience will be invaluable as we continue expanding and investing in Ireland.”
The market’s strongest sellers include Rhine and Danube river cruising on Travelmarvel’s Contemporary River Ships, and the Douro in Northern Portugal, driven by the launch of the brand’s new MS Estrela river ship.
Ryan said: “I am incredibly excited to join this dynamic company, and to help even more agents in Ireland to capitalise on the outstanding sales opportunity that APT’s Travelmarvel brand offers.
“I have watched Travelmarvel’s presence grow in Ireland over the last year and am very excited to get onboard with the brand and help establish it further.
“Working closely with agents, we look forward to sharing our exciting plans; showcasing Travelmarvel’s gold standard fleet, itineraries and service; and developing valued partnerships in the Irish market.”
She will deliver joint marketing initiatives, in-store support and exclusive training and development opportunities to help travel agents sell Travelmarvel’s cruises.