Ex-Dawson & Sanderson managing director Chris Harrison is joining Not Just Travel as commercial director.
The first of a number of new high profile roles within the company, he was formerly head of trade sales, head of trade purchasing and distribution director at Thomas Cook.
Harrison left the Newcastle-based Dawson & Sanderson as part of a restructure last September.
He will oversee all aspects of business development and revenue generation for Not Just Travel’s consultants, including learning and development opportunities and creating better tools, systems and technology for consultants to utilise.
Harrison will also oversee the expansion of the Not Just Travel trade team as it continues its focus on supporting their trade partners.
Co-founder Steve Witt said: “We were highly selective in who we wanted for this unique and important role and so asked the best leaders in our industry who they would recommend.
“Chris’ name kept coming back to us time and time again. His excellent reputation precedes him and we knew he was the best person for the job.
“He is a high-achiever who has generated high growth in companies of similar size to us. It’s a big signing for us, and kicks off our game-changing senior and middle management recruitment drive.
“We already have an incredible team who got us where we are today, but we are elevating our talent above and beyond what we have ever
Fellow co-founder Paul Harrison added: “Not Just Travel has transitioned from being a fantastic business for people new to the industry, to one that now creates a world-class platform for our partners to succeed long term.
“Our partners are our amazing franchise network, corporate team and trade partners. We strongly believe in the mantra ‘to build the business you build the people’ and this will be at the forefront of Chris’ objectives”.
Harrison said: “Not Just Travel is an exceptional business that I’m proud to be a part of.
“I’m excited by Paul and Steve’s vision and the potential of the company and can’t wait to take the business to the next level.
“Already I can see how they have nurtured a supportive culture and family feel for both its staff and travel consultants. Not Just Travel is progressive, dynamic and forward-thinking and dovetails with my values. Together, we will take the company on a massive growth trajectory.”