Jackie Martin is joining Fred Olsen Cruise Lines as sales and marketing director.

The former sales and marketing director at Butlin’s replaces Justin Stanton, who leaves Fred Olsen on the 30 April after a 13-year career with the company.

Martin, who previously held senior positions at NTL (Virgin Media) and CNN, said: “I’m very excited to have the opportunity to work with the wonderful Fred Olsen team and it will be a real privilege to help caretake such a fabulous brand, with a rich heritage and loyal following.”

Martin has overall responsibility for Fred Olsen’s UK sales, marketing and public relations teams, reporting to managing director Mike Rodwell. 

Rodwell said: “We are delighted to have found such a fitting and dynamic candidate to fill this pivotal role within our senior management team. Jackie’s extensive sales and marketing expertise – most recently with a well-known travel brand – will be sure to stand her in good stead in this key position.

“This is an exciting time of growth, but also of great challenges, in the cruise industry. I am confident that Jackie will embrace the opportunities available to us and will play an important part in helping to develop and shape the direction of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines well into the future.”

Reporting into Martin will be Geoff Ridgeon, Fred Olsen’s new head of sales, who starts with the company on 7 May, Ben Williams, head of marketing, and Rachael Jackson, public relations manager.