Olivia Stephens has been appointed to the newly created role of executive assistant, responsible for helping support and develop the line’s sales and distribution network of tour operators and agents.

Stephens, a business and tourism graduate from Plymouth University, will support Lucia Rowe, head of A-Rosa UK and Ireland, with her duties including regular liaisons with trade partners and suppliers, hosting training sessions and attending trade shows.

A-Rosa was acquired by private equity firm Duke Street in January, and in May announced it would launch its first new-build vessel since 2014. The 126-passenger ship will be christened in May 2019 and sail the Douro.

A-Rosa said it was also considering further fleet expansion plans, with Stephens’ appointment forming part of its “ongoing growth strategy”.

Rowe said: “This appointment is so important for us and the first time an appointment has been made since we began selling in the UK in 2014.

“It will enable us to provide greater contact with our travel trade partners. This is only the beginning of A-Rosa’s expansion plans in the UK market.”