A-ROSA River Cruises has appointed Olivia Stephens in the newly created role of executive assistant, as part of the company’s ongoing growth strategy.

The appointment is the first made in the UK since the cruise line entered the UK market. Stephens will be responsible for helping to support and develop the operator’s sales and distribution network of tour operators and agents in the country.

Stephens, who was recruited via the ITT student ambassador programme, will work with Lucia Rowe, head of A-ROSA UK & Ireland, and liaise with tour operator partners and travel agents on a regular basis, hosting training sessions and attending trade shows.

Rowe said: “This appointment is so important for us going forward and the first time appointment I have made since we began selling in the UK in 2014. It will enable us to provide greater contact with our travel trade partners and provide me with the support I need on a day-to-day basis to drive growth going forward.

“It will free up more of my time to focus on the strategic developments and business opportunities. This is only the beginning of A-ROSA’s expansion plans in the UK market.”

Stephens, a business and tourism graduate from Plymouth University, is also working on a Masters degree in sustainable environmental management.