Hurtigruten has replaced former UK trade partnerships manager Natalie Holder with James Howlett.
Working across both Hurtigruten’s Expeditions and Coastal Express brands, Howlett will be responsible for “generating new opportunities and awareness of Hurtigruten’s offering”.
The line said Howlett will use his “vast experience and relationships” with the UK trade to build support with partners in the UK. He previously worked for Fred Holidays, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection and Collette.
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Howlett, who recently spent more than a year outside the industry working as a sales executive for car dealer firm Holdcroft Motor Group, will report to head of UK sales Mark Walter in his new role.
Walter said: “We are delighted James is joining the team. It’s an incredibly exciting time as we grow and build the Hurtigruten brand amongst the UK travel trade. His wealth of experience and commercial understanding will be a great asset to us.”
He paid tribute to Holder who has left to join Not Just Travel as head of trade.
“We are really sad that Natalie is leaving us,” he added. “She has been incredible, especially during the last two years, and her hard work has paid off, and she has been rewarded with a wonderful opportunity she richly deserves.
“We wish her well and our sincere thanks.”