P&O Cruises declares Ruth Venn its new director of sales

Venn replaces Nathaniel Sherborne, who leaves the business in early March, and takes on the new refocused sales role. It involves responsibility for travel agent sales revenue and trade engagement, including training, events, communications, and sales support.

Priorities for the coming months involve Venn growing existing travel agent partnerships and attracting new ones, as the company takes on new capacity with the introduction of Arvia in December.

Over 16 years’ experience

‘I am delighted to promote Ruth into this position and have every confidence in her ability to take on this role with relish,’ remarked Robert Scott, VP brand, marketing and sales, P&O Cruises. ‘She has over 16 years of experience in the industry, as well as an infectious passion for cruising.

‘I would also like to thank Nathaniel for the many years of service in this business and wish him every success.’

Travel agents 

Scott emphasised P&O Cruises’ focus on agents, stating, ‘Over the past two years, agents have had to communicate so many changes and new protocols to guests, it has been relentless.

‘Throughout it all, they, as well as our guests, have continued to support us despite the disruptions and we are determined to show our appreciation by giving all agents the support, training tools and strength of team they need to succeed.’

Outlook

He went on to add that ‘2022 will be a vital year for the business,’ stating, ‘there has never been a more important time to prove to the trade just how important they are to us.’

He continued, ‘As our full fleet returns to service in the Spring and we can, at last, see some relief from COVID-19, the appetite for holidays is stronger than ever. We are seeing such positivity from those who have sailed with us recently and reassurance from the multi-layered protocols on board and seeing strong interest in the Med, the Fjords and the Caribbean.

‘Iona’s first full year of sailing and Arvia’s delivery at the end of the year will also give agents new itineraries, as well as two new extraordinary, contemporary ships to sell to their customers.

‘Ruth and her team will create opportunities for first-hand experiences on board our ships and the tools they need to maximise sales.’