He was promoted from his previous role of sales manager – independent retail and will now take responsibility for all the cruise operator’s UK sales teams.

He has worked for the company since 1992 during which time he has held a number of roles including regional sales manager for the North of England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. 

Evans said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to take on this role at a time when we, as a business, are looking to engage with the travel trade even more than we have done in the past few years.

“With an increased number of new and innovative itineraries, including an extensive fly-cruise programme, I really look forward to leading our team to increase our involvement and commitment to the retail travel trade.”

Justin Stanton, sales and marketing director for Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, said:

“With his broad industry experience, extensive knowledge of Fred Olsen’s unique style of cruising, and excellent reputation with our travel industry partners, Mike was the obvious choice for this key position.

“We’re delighted that Mike has agreed to take on this exciting role, which will further cement our strong relationships with the travel trade.”