APT & Travelmarvel has promoted its existing business development manager for central England Robin Griffiths to the newly created role of national account manager.

The river cruise and touring operator said the advertised role received “many applications from strong candidates”; however, Griffiths’ “excellent” account management skills, “outstanding” sales performance and track record, and dynamic approach made him the standout choice.

From 1 March 2024 when he takes up the new role, Griffiths will look after APT & Travelmarvel’s current key accounts, building volume with fledgling partners, and identifying new relationships with wholesalers.

The creation of the new position comes due to 70% of the line’s business coming through the trade, and the company has ambitious plans for future growth through the expansion of its third-party business.

APT & Travelmarvel is currently recruiting for Griffiths’ replacement to take over as BDM for central England, as well as for a BDM to cover northern England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Koral Lipton to depart APT for new role in ocean sector

After 15 months with APT, Koral Lipton will be moving on from her role as BDM north at the end of February as she moves into the ocean cruising sector.

APT & Travelmarvel’s head of sales and business development Brad Bennetts said: “We are always seeking to develop and nurture our talent, so I couldn’t be more thrilled to promote Robin Griffiths to the newly created role of national account manager.

“Whilst I am delighted to see Robin step up, I am very sad that we will be saying goodbye to Koral Lipton as our BDM in the north, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Koral has been a fun and positive member of the APT Family, and we wish her every luck for the future.”