Inspire Europe chief executive Lisa Henning said Dutton’s arrival is "a really strong addition" to the Cheshire-based agency’s senior leadership team. 

Dutton will start her role on 6 October and will support the company’s first Independent Travel Associates (ITA) conference in Majorca the following week. 

Before JG Travel Group, Dutton worked for Shearings Holidays for more than two and a half years and Superbreak for nearly 18 years as a key account manager. 

Henning said: "We’re delighted with Claire’s appointment and to have attracted someone of Claire’s reputation and experience. She will be a really strong addition to our leadership team."

Dutton added: "I’m really pleased and excited to be joining Inspire and I’m looking forward to contributing to their exciting growth plans. 

"Inspire is a diverse business with a fantastic team. This new role is an amazing opportunity for me to develop and drive a sales, marketing and product strategy that is aligned with their expansion plans."