David Thomas brings 25-plus years’ industry experience to the role with the Hampshire-based agency following stints with CTM, Statesman, Portman Travel and FCM. As sales director, Thomas will oversee business development for both Meon Valley’s corporate and worldwide emergency medical repatriation divisions.

Meon Valley Travel has been named TTG Top 50 Travel Agencies Top Agency South East for the past two years. Managing director James Beagrie said Thomas had had an "immediate impact". 

"It’s a great opportunity for us both as we continue to strengthen the team," said Beagrie. "We have exciting plans ahead with customer focus at the very heart of everything we do, and David’s appointment forms an integral part of our continued success."

Thomas added: "As ’purposeful travel’ rebounds, both sustainability and traveller wellbeing have amplified in corporate delivery and, quality of service remains an integral prerequisite.

"Meon is highly regarded in the industry as a company that treasures its progressive, fun, can-do culture providing customers with their own unique ‘celebrity service’. Meon employs and has nurtured the most motivated and knowledgeable team balancing talent and technology with an unrivalled reputation.

"Despite the obvious challenges the travel industry continues to face globally, these represent exciting opportunities for progressive businesses with Meon at the forefront."