Brudenell, 37, takes on the newly created role at the villa specialist after joining three years ago as head of marketing and will oversee all company operations.

Prior to joining CV, Brudenell held marketing roles with British Airways Holidays, Kenwood Travel and James Villa Holidays. Brudenell said he was delighted to have been given the opportunity to spearhead the company as it continues to look to grow.

"With our 50th anniversary celebration in full swing and the travel industry seeing a positive rebound, it is an exciting time to be stepping into this new role," he said. "I look forward to the challenges and opportunities this position will bring to the business.”

CV Villas has significantly expanded its trade service over the past year; Chris Etheridge joined as business development manager in January 2021, taking responsibility for the trade sales, incentives and campaigns, as well as new and existing agent and tour operator partnerships.

In June last year, CV said revenue from new and existing trade partners in April was up 40% compared with April 2019.

Then in November, CV added three more to its trade team – villa specialists Madeleine Hubble and Matthew Corcoran, and Emily Waters, who was appointed to a new villa specialist support and concierge role. Etheridge said the appointments to the company’s sales team "showcased CV Villas commitment to the travel trade".

In January this year, CV Villas said it grew trade sales by 52% compared with the same month in 2019.

Remarking on Brudenell’s ascendency, CV said: "Since joining the company, CV Villas has been going from strength to strength through Pete’s dedication and leadership skills. From leading the rebrand of the business to spearheading their digital transformation project, Pete has from the start continuously delivered exciting new projects to the business and will ensure a seamless transition into his new role.

"CV Villas recently reported an impressive 57% increase in growth versus the same period in 2019, with key destinations including Greece, Italy and the Caribbean performing well. Trade bookings have also increased reaching a record-breaking 52% for January 2022 compared to January 2019."