Azamara Club Cruises has appointed Richard Twynam as its first ever managing director in the UK and Ireland. Twynam will lead a new 10-strong team dedicated to the destination immersive cruise line.

Twynam brings almost 20 years of experience in the travel industry with him, having held senior positions at companies such as Air New Zealand, Tui UK, Virgin Holidays Cruises and Kuoni UK.

The appointment follows a decision earlier this year by parent company RCL Cruises Ltd to evolve its UK and Ireland business structure in response to business growth.

Beginning January 1, 2014, there will be three dedicated businesses, however Twynam will continue to work in partnership with Stuart Leven, manager director Royal Caribbean International and Jo Rzymowska, managing director Celebrity Cruises.  

“The UK and Ireland market continues to be one of the largest and most important for Azamara Club Cruises and is going from strength to strength,” said Larry Pimentel, president and CEO of Azamara Club Cruises.

“We are excited to welcome Richard Twynam to lead this evolution as we continue to grow and invest in our business in the UK. Now is a really exciting time for the business as the expansion continues.”

Supporting Twynam as commercial director is David Duff, formerly commercial planning and analysis for RCL Cruises Ltd. Duff is joined by a business analyst and an air and inventory team member. The new commercial team will aid agents in planning pricing, itineraries and strengthen the brand among British and Irish travelers.

In addition, Twynam will oversee a three-strong sales team and a marketing communications and PR manger. 

The sales and marketing team will be supported by a trade marketing executive, the first time the cruise line has enjoyed this level of agent focus in the UK and Ireland.