Jerrard’s CV boasts wide-ranging experience in senior corporate, airline and agency account management and sales, including with brands such as Etihad Airways.

The river cruise and escorted touring specialist said Jerrard, whose appointment follows the departure of Sarah Turner who has joined Audley Travel, would bring skills to the business from outside the leisure travel sector.

Jerrard will report into APT and Travelmarvel head of sales and business development, Brad Bennetts, and will be tasked with promoting the group’s European and Asian river cruises, small ship and yachting itineraries, and expedition cruises, as well as its touring product and newly launched small group tours to the trade.

She will support agents with training and strategic campaigns, and hit the road to identify new business opportunities with agents in the south of the UK.

Her appointment comes as Travelmarvel prepares to launch the MS Estrela on Portugal’s Douro river in August, and to expand into Greece next year for the first time with two small ship cruises.

APT, meanwhile, will launch two brand new ultra-luxury ships in Europe next year, Solara and Ostara, which will sail the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.

Earlier this year, APT and Travelmarvel hired Barrhead Travel river cruise specialist Gary Speirs as its new BDM for the north, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

"As a proudly trade-first operator, we know that having the right sales team in place can be as important to our partners’ success as the quality of our ships and guest experiences," said Bennetts.

Bennetts continued: "Combining sales acumen, rich industry experience, and a fresh take on our sector, Tara is well placed to develop business opportunities for agents across the south.

"Getting straight to work on building momentum for our new fleet, UK-exclusive sailings, expanded small ship offering and small group journeys, Tara will be a great asset to the team."

Jerrard added: "River cruising, small ship sailing and touring are booming, and the business potential of these travel styles is enormous.

"I can’t wait to help agents harness these sales opportunities, provide the tools to maximise conversions, and the training to confidently match every customer with their perfect holiday."