The sustainable tourism charity is looking for someone with proven experience in the field of sustainable tourism, and of leadership in a corporate environment.

Felton will relocate to her native Australia due to a family illness. Chair of trustees Noel Josephides paid tribute to Felton for her contribution to the charity’s growth.

“Salli is a strong leader, who has grown and shaped the organisation to firmly establish the Travel Foundation at the forefront of sustainable tourism globally.

“We believe in stretching ourselves and have set ambitious targets to grow our partnerships and programmes accordingly.

"As a result, we are looking for an exceptional candidate who will nurture a high-performance culture and enable the Travel Foundation to achieve its potential.”

The foundation, based in Bristol, works around the world to mitigate and improve the impacts of tourism for the benefit of local people and local environments.

Felton will remain in post until the summer to facilitate a smooth transition.

Her replacement will then set to work on developing and growing the charity’s existing work while shaping a longer-term agenda.

“This is an exciting time to join the charity, as there is considerable opportunity to capitalise and build on new research findings, launching new charitable initiatives that will benefit destination communities and environments, holidaymakers and the travel industry,” Josephides added.

“The right candidate will be leading a friendly, passionate and skilled executive team of 18, motivating them to engage and increase our partnerships, and develop and deliver programmes that unlock the positive potential of tourism.

"We feel this is a truly exceptional opportunity for a talented individual to make their mark.”