MSC Cruises has bolstered its trade support team with two new roles and one expanded position

Claire Smith (pictured left) has been promoted to head of MSC Yacht Club alongside her previous role as head of trade support. MSC Cruises described the Yacht Club, which is its ship within a ship concept, as a “key growth area”.

Meanwhile, Lauren Perks (centre) has joined as trade support manager tasked with delivering excellent trade partner service while also supporting the sales team. She will report directly into Smith.

Plus, Laura Wilson (right) has taken on the position of field sales and development manager. Reporting into head of sales Alyshia Bartlett, Wilson will head a team of six, including five regional sales managers, while driving new business opportunities for the line.

The new roles bring the line’s total number in the trade team to 21 people in the UK and Ireland.

Antonio Paradiso, vice president of international sales at MSC Cruises, said: “As we grow our business, these new and expanded roles will strengthen the support that we already provide to our trade partners who are central to our success in the UK.

“We are delighted to welcome Laura and Lauren to the MSC Cruises family and congratulate Claire on her new role.

“We are seeing high demand for premium and luxury holidays and as the UK is the second-largest source market globally for MSC Yacht Club, this is a key area for trade partners to focus on.”