Hurtigruten has announced the appointment of James Howlett as UK trade partnerships manager.

Howlett previously worked for Fred Holidays, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, and Collette.

The company said that Howlett will use “his vast experience and relationships with UK trade” to build support for trade partners.

He will work across both the Expeditions and Coastal Express brands and will be responsible for generating new opportunities and awareness.

Howlett will report directly to head of UK sales Mark Walter.

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.”

Howlett’s appointment comes as Natalie Holder leaves the business to pursue a new opportunity.

“We are really sad that Natalie is leaving us. 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,” Walter added.

In January, the Hurtigruten Group announced the appointment of Gerard Short as its new VP of digital solutions across its expedition cruising operation.

Then, in late March, Hurtigruten Norwegian Coastal Express unveiled plans to operate zero emission ships along the Norwegian coast.

The operator is working with research organisation SINTEF on the project, with the first ship scheduled to enter service in 2030.