Brown, a former Shearings’ Holidays commercial director, will be responsible for the Edwards Holidays and Ecole schools brands.

She announced she would stand down from Shearings last year.

Her appointment follows that of Caroline Narloch, also formerly of Shearings, who joined Edwards in March in the newly created role of head of contracting, Edwards Holidays.

Jason Edwards, Edwards Coaches’ managing director, said: “Having known both Carolines for many years, I’m extremely proud to announce them joining Edwards Coaches.

“They are pretty much up there with the best in the UK and it speaks volumes of our company’s ambition by attracting such high class individuals.

“I’m looking forward to working alongside them both and I’m sure they will complement the existing strong team already in place at Edwards.

“They bring a wealth of experience with them and I am confident our loyal customers and staff will see immediate benefits in our holiday programme.”

Brown added: “I’m delighted to be joining Edwards Coaches at such a time of development and growth and look forward to working with Jason, the Edwards family and team.

“There are exciting times ahead as we work to refine and develop the existing holiday programme, as well as introducing new holidays and initiatives in the future.”

She also serves as chairman of Abta’s UK tourism and leisure group.