Kelly’s new position is designed to heighten collaboration with tourist boards, airlines, DMCs and suppliers. A staff member for more than 34 years, Kelly is Jules Verne’s longest serving employee.

After five-and-a-half years as head of commercial, Kelly will now oversee the development of Jules Verne’s new partnership programme. 

The operator said Adams’ new position “reflects the brand’s increasingly integrated approach across the sales and marketing departments”.

He joined Jules Verne as head of marketing in December, having worked with brands including Hurtigruten, Great Rail Journeys and Collette.

The operator said: “Since joining, Richard has already had a huge impact, such as masterminding Jules Verne’s spring sale – the brand’s largest sale yet – which was strongly embraced by the trade, including branches of Kuoni, Baldwins Travel and Hays Travel.”

In addition to his previous responsibilities, Adams will now also lead the operator’s sales team.

Debbie O’Neill, Jules Verne managing director, said: “In our 46th year, it remains of utmost importance we continue to evolve with and adapt to the growing demand, shifting priorities and core ambitions of the brand, its customers and more widely, the travel industry."

O’Neill continued: "I’m excited to see further development of our partnerships programme, which will broaden access to our incredible brand as well as the inspiring small-group escorted tours that we offer, especially under Laura’s management – a colleague of mine for 30 years and counting.

"Her understanding, dedication and passion for the brand is unparalleled."

On Adams’ appointment, O’Neill added: "Likewise, I am looking forward to the continued strengthening of our brand as we pursue an integrated sales and marketing strategy driven by Richard. He has made an incredible impact since joining us, so I am thrilled how his dedication and innovative thinking will drive us forward.”