Francesca Mendola will step up to direct the group’s global account management team, overseeing the growth and retention of its network of independent agents in the UK.

Alexandra Habuc, meanwhile, has been appointed human resources director; she will be tasked with building support and development channels available to members.

GTC grew its pool of independent agents by more than a quarter last year to around 120, and is aiming to grow at a similar rate this year.

Its brands include Protravel International, Tzell Travel and Colletts Travel.

Jason Oshiokpekhai, managing director of Global Travel Collection UK, said: “In the past year, both [parent] Internova Travel Group UK and Global Travel Collection UK have undergone major transformations during the most difficult period in our industry’s history.

"We’ve nevertheless been able to grow our network of independent travel advisors, add new client support, and establish GTC UK as a standalone brand.

"This success is owed in large part to the exceptional efforts of Francesca Mendola and Alexandra Habuc, who will continue to drive positive change in their new roles as directors."

Oshiokpekhai added the group’s commitment to developing talent internally and promoting from within fell in line with industry-wide trends he said would play a key role in travel’s recovery from Covid.

"Alexandra and Francesca are absolutely testament to this," he said. "Thanks to their leadership, innovation and strategic thinking, Global Travel Collection UK has not only weathered the storm, but is poised to take full advantage of the pent-up demand for all types of travel.”