Caron, who has held senior leadership roles across product, purchasing, cruise and distribution during her 24-year Tui career, left the group at the end of September, Tui confirmed. 

It came a day after it was announced Tui UK and Ireland managing director Andrew Flintham would succeed British Airways Holidays managing director Claire Bentley next month when she retires.

Tui said Caron had been “a key member” of its markets and leadership team over the past seven years.

Prior to her most recent role, Caron was managing director of Tui UK’s cruise division, leading on strategies – including re-fleeting – which Tui credited for the "transformation" of Marella Cruises.

She was also a member of the Tui UK and Ireland board in her role as distribution director.

“Helen has been been responsible for optimising Tui’s accommodation spend as group product and purchasing director, leading the worldwide planning and sourcing for Tui Group, alongside defining and implementing the differentiated product strategy and building relationships with strategic hotel partners," said Tui.

“Helen is recognised as a highly effective and successful commercial operator across the entire value chain.” 

Caron, though, will remain an independent advisor to the Tui Care Foundation, supporting projects around the world reinforcing tourism’s role as a force for good.

“I’ve been privileged to lead some amazing international teams at Tui," said Caron. "I am immensely proud of all that we have achieved and grateful to everyone who has supported me.

"I am also honoured the Tui Care Foundation team would like me to continue working with them, as I passionately believe in the important work they do. I wish my colleagues every success in the future.”