Riviera Travel has appointed Jim Forward as its new commercial director.

The appointment, which will take effect from 1 December 2018, will help the company strengthen growth opportunities.

Forward joins the Riviera team from walking holiday co-operative, HF Holidays, where he was chief executive for five years.

He was also managing director of Warner Leisure Hotels and head of sales and marketing for Butlin’s at Bourne Leisure.

David Clemson, chief executive, Riviera Travel, said: “Jim brings a wealth of travel industry experience to the Riviera Travel team and we are thrilled to have him on board.

“We have exciting growth opportunities ahead, and Jim’s expertise will be instrumental as we evolve our existing specialist travel products and branch into new areas of the market.”

Forward added: “I have long admired the Riviera Travel brand, the exceptional levels of customer service and the diverse travel experiences that the company offers.

“I am delighted to be joining the team and look forward to building on Riviera Travel’s exemplary product proposition and core values as part of a wider commercial strategy.”