He will succeed Sara Zimmerman, who has decided to step down after nine years to remain at the guided group holiday provider as a shareholder and non-executive director. 

Zimmerman was responsible for completely reshaping the business during her tenure, implementing measures such as the introduction of an agency sales channel for the UK business. 

As part of his new role, Coughlan will be tasked with delivering Travel Department’s growth plans following a boom in demand for escorted touring.

Commenting on the appointment, Travel Department chair Deirdre Burns said Coughlan’s experience and knowledge of the UK market made him a “perfect fit” to lead the operator into the next phase of its development. 

“I am absolutely delighted to be joining Travel Department and look forward to building on the phenomenal achievements of Sara and the team and working with them and the board to deliver the next chapter of growth for the business,” said Coughlan, who left Abercrombie and Kent after nearly four years last June. 

Zimmerman added: “I’m delighted to be handing over the reins to a very experienced, energetic leader who will no doubt take the business to the next level.”