Ambassador Cruise Line has appointed four new Business Development Executives, a Trade Support Executive and a Trade Support Assistant to enhance its in-house trade team, according to a statement.

According to a company statement, the expansion aims to better serve agent partners’ needs and strengthen commercial relationships.

Nicola Harper, head of Distribution at Ambassador Cruise Line, said: “I am delighted to welcome some great new talent to the Ambassador Trade Team, which will only benefit our agent partners as we look to continue providing them with all the support and tools they need. These experienced additions illustrate just how highly we value the trade, who can rest assured that Ambassador will be with them every step of the way as we look to continue serving both the business and our partners in the most effective and productive way possible.”

Debbie Ballantyne joins as a business development executive for Scotland and Northern Ireland. Previously a Branch Manager at Barrhead Travel, she will report to Karen Cameron, deputy head of trade, until a new Divisional Sales Manager for North is appointed.

Natalie Hurst takes on the role of business development executive for the North Midlands. She previously served as a Business Development Manager at The Travel Network Group and a Branch Manager at Newell’s Travel.

Kelly Whitefoot is the new business development executive for the South Midlands. She comes from Aquilium Travel Group and has held management roles at Polka Dot Travel, Hays Travel, Thomas Cook and TUI.

Jade Cheadle has been appointed business development executive for the South West and Wales. She joins from TUI, where she was a Travel Advisor and Team Leader.

All three will report to Louise Tansey, divisional sales manager for South.

Michelle Nairne has been appointed group support executive, reporting to Alan Rennie, business development manager – groups. Nairne, formerly a Customer Services Clerk at Adrian Flux Insurance Services, will manage contracts and allocations and optimize processes for group needs.

Audra Garner transitions from reservations specialist to trade support assistant, reporting to Trade Support Manager Beth Barker. Garner, who joined Ambassador in June 2021, will enhance the support function within the trade team.