The Former Emerald Cruises global director of brand and marketing will join the river cruise and touring specialist on Tuesday (12 September) on an initial six-month fixed-term contract.

He will take up a newly created consultative role of sales marketing lead, reporting to APT and Travelmarvel managing director UK and Europe, Paul Melinis, and head of marketing transformation Katie Elson.

In his new role, Winterton will aim to help the group capitalise on its new ships in Europe and Asia, while supporting the efforts of the APT and Travelmarvel’s recently expanded agency sales team – now its largest ever.

He will also lend his support to APT and Travelmarvel’s executive team during "an exciting time of growth".

Winterton brings 35 years’ industry experience to the role, with specific knowledge and expertise in the UK and European market, which APT and Travelmarvel described as "an increasingly key strategic market" for the business, which is headquartered in Australia.

The group said Winterton would focus on making APT and Travelmarvel household names, create new leads and prospecting opportunities, and help the company and its agent partners "achieve their ambitious sales targets for the 2024 season".

Winterton started his travel career in the retail sector with Co-op Travel and Future Travel, followed by a spell with Tui. For the past 12 years, Winterton has specialised in cruise; in his most recent role with Scenic, he was responsible for leading the group’s Emerald Cruises brand in the UK and worldwide.

"We are delighted to welcome David Winterton to the APT and Travelmarvel family”, said Melinis. “David’s contacts in the luxury cruise sector and understanding of the market are unparalleled, and his proven track record at elevating brands in this space make him the perfect addition to our team as we drive our business forward at pace.”

Winterton added: "I’ve always admired APT and Travelmarvel for being a forward-thinking, progressive company. Having spent time with Paul, Katie and the team, I’m very excited to join the team at such a pivotal time, with new ships launching in both Asia and Europe."