Duff brings almost 30 years' experience in the travel industry and joins the business as it readies the launch of a redeveloped website while exploring further opportunities to grow sales through the trade. 

The operator also plans to build on its specialist portfolio, which includes expert-led art and history tours and its Great British Heritage collection.

His appointment comes two years after Travel Editions was acquired by Artisan Travel Group, with the business now entering what it describes as its "next phase of growth".

Duff most recently served as UK and EMEA Managing Director at Azamara Cruises, overseeing commercial sales operations. Earlier in his career, he held senior strategic roles at Royal Caribbean International, including Head of Commercial Planning and Analysis, having started in the industry as a Product Manager at First Choice.

Ian Finlay, Chair of Artisan Travel Group, said Duff's breadth of experience made him well placed to lead the business through its next stage of development.

"It's the depth and variety of David's experience that makes him such a great fit for the business, along with his committed approach to sustainable growth and development," he said. 

"The team have ambitious plans to expand what it offers, building on firm foundations to fulfil the business's true potential."

Duff said he was joining the business at a strong time for the escorted touring market. "It's a real privilege to be joining Travel Editions at this inspiring time in the company's history, when the escorted tours market is not only bigger than ever, but continuing to grow at an impressive rate," he said.

He added that the company's mix of specialist products, from solo holidays to private group tours, gave it a "strong platform for future growth".