Deadman joins the firm after confirming this week she had been made redundant by The Travel Network Group, where she was membership manager.

PTS said Deadman would be instrumental in ensuring members get the support they need and are in the best possible position to bounce back when travel emerges from the coronavirus crisis.

"I am delighted and excited to join Protected Trust Services who rival others in the industry due to their technology solutions," she said.

"I’m really looking forward to working with their innovative and entrepreneurial members, and help support and grow their businesses."

PTS managing director Daniel Landen said Deadman would be an "incredible addition" to the team. "We’re very excited to welcome her."

Landen said PTS’s main focus during the pandemic had been to tailor its support to the wide array of different independent businesses and business models throughout its membership.

"It has been imperative that we work with each member as closely as possible," he said. "I am humbled by our member’s tenacity and strength during such a challenging time.

"Integrating Nicky into the team will allow members to feel even more supported. But, most importantly, brighter days will come – Covid will come to an end, and we want to ensure our members are supported to ensure their rebound and growth is the strongest in the industry."

Landen added PTS’s growth during the Covid crisis was testament to its efforts over the past 12 years to build a proposition ready for a shift towards trust accounts.