The luxury tour operator says that the venture will “offer the opportunity to pursue new commercial opportunities for Elegant Resorts” and to “evolve the brand and create a new sports tour operator.” 

Jeffries, who was previously head of product and commercial at Carrier, brings almost 30 years travel industry experience in product and sales roles to his new position. He got his start in the field as a contracts manager and a France holiday specialist at Cresta Holidays, before spending 11 years at Travel Counsellors, where he helped develop the company’s in-house Tour Operating model.

“I am genuinely thrilled to join Elegant Resorts and have this opportunity to build a new business unit across the wider Portman Travel Group,” Jeffries said. “The role combines my personal passion for sport and luxury travel, and I am excited to start working with colleagues across the group to deliver a market-leading luxury sports travel business.”

This enthusiasm was echoed by Elegant Resorts’ managing director, Lisa Fitzell, who said she is “delighted” by Jeffries addition to the team. 

“We see a real opportunity for Elegant Resorts to develop the best luxury sports travel company. Thanks to Destination Sports, which is part of the Portman Travel Group like us, we already have access to the most exciting sports fixtures around the world and with Elegant Resorts, we are combining our expertise to deliver the very best luxury sports holidays. I wish Simon every success in his new role,” she said. 

It was confirmed in late May that Jeffries would be leaving Carrier after nearly 7 years. 

“So many partnerships have morphed into friendships and, while the odd lockdown wasn’t part of the script, it has all contributed to a period of significant personal growth, understanding of luxury product and, importantly, the luxury customer,” he said at the time. 

“I move on with happy memories, having been extremely fortunate to see the places I’ve seen and meet the people I’ve met. With grateful thanks to my colleagues and immense pride in the brilliant team I leave behind.”