In his new director of sales, partnerships and strategic growth role, Hughes will report into Nichola Absalom, sales and marketing managing director.

He will oversee sales operations for both Scenic and Emerald Cruises brands and will be based at company’s Manchester office. Hughes previously worked for Attraction World and Gold Medal/Travel2 before moving to Princess Cruises just over a year ago. 

Absalom said: “[Hughes] brings significant expertise, industry knowledge and experience to support the ambitious growth we have for our business in 2024 and beyond. I am looking forward to working closely with Nick to achieve this.” 

Hughes said: “It is a very exciting time to join the Scenic Group, Nichola and her teams in the UK and Ireland. 

“The guest experiences they deliver are truly market-leading and highly desirable. I’m looking forward to working with the team to spearhead our ambitious plans.”

He added: “Travel agents and tour operator partners are central to building the business for Scenic and Emerald Cruises.

"The consumer demand is there, our mission is to support our industry partners both existing and new and help them to build their knowledge and confidence so they can help create stories for life for their customers with Scenic and Emerald. This is going to be a real privilege.”

Meanwhile, Eithne Williamson, Princess Cruises UK and Europe vice-president, praised Hughes’ efforts during his time with the ocean line. 

She said: “It’s been a great year for the Princess UK and Europe sales team, and we are thankful for the wealth of knowledge and experience that Nick brought to the team."

Williamson continued: "While he will be missed at Princess, having the opportunity for wider remit with a smaller privately-owned business that is closer to home is one Nick couldn’t turn down.

"We wish him well in his future as we look forward to continued success of Princess supported by our brilliant partnerships with valued travel agents.”

Williamson also confirmed Princess had begun searching for a new sales director, adding: “[We’re] starting internally by looking across our valued and talented employees at Carnival.”