Alison Burton, whose career in travel spans more than two decades, will lead the new three-strong team. Burton has worked with James Villas for two years in sales and guest operations. 

She has previously held trade facing roles at Stena Lines and Sandals & Beaches Resorts, and was a Thomas Cook veteran of some 15 years.

“My team is fantastic and brings experience from throughout the business, to help and support our agent partners," said Burton.

"I can’t wait to get out and about, meet up with agents and share information about the incredible breadth of product that we have to offer their customers.”

Aimie Fisher and Lauren White will join the trade team as guest operations specialists – trade relations. Fisher joined James Villas in 2022 after making the leap to travel by working as a self-employed travel agent during Covid.

White joined the villas specialist in 2021 after gaining experience in a family-run ski holiday business and completing her travel and tourism studies at college.

David Woollcott, who was appointed James Villas general manager in July 2023, said: “I am thrilled to see us working more closely with travel agent partners.

"Alison and the team are hugely passionate about working with the trade, and initial feedback from agents has been very positive.

"Our Anta membership, low deposits, and excellent customer service both before and during holidays, means we are the natural choice for agents looking for a villa holiday for their customer.”