Calvert, who was previously UK managing director of mainstream tour operations at Thomas Cook, has also held senior leadership positions at First Choice and Tui.

He is currently president and chief executive of US-based global holiday group, Celebration Travel Group.

Calvert replaces Denis Wormwell, who left the over-55s specialist at the end of last year after almost a decade.

He will take up his role with Shearings in the spring with Gary Speakman, chief finance officer and deputy chief executive, continuing to lead the business on an interim basis until then.

Calvert said: “I’ve long admired Shearings as a true specialist operator with unrivalled expertise, an impressive heritage and outstanding customer loyalty. The current team has continued to build a strong business with an excellent and constantly-evolving product offering.

“I’m looking forward to bringing my expertise to the Group and working with such a highly capable team as we look to build on our performance in this exciting part of the travel and leisure market."

Grant Hearn, chairman of Shearings Leisure Group, said: “With an impressive international career at some of the biggest brands in travel and leisure, we’re delighted to be welcoming Richard to the group.

“His experience, including his knowledge of building customer focused and digital-led brands, makes him an ideal fit given our forward ambitions for continued growth and expansion.

“He joins at a time of growing momentum and opportunity across our businesses. He will be supported by an outstanding senior management team and a highly experienced board of directors.”