In her newly created role, Amy Sykes will oversee the management of UK trade accounts, special interest groups and business partnerships.

Sykes, who joins the Oxford-based line from tour bus operator City Sightseeing where she was global partnerships manager, is also be charged with developing Voyages to Antiquity’s in-house developed video training platform, www.vtaexpert.com.

Jos Dewing, managing director, said: “I’m thrilled to welcome Amy aboard. Her impressive track record and personality brings valuable experience and abilities to our team.

“She will manage an integral and growing part of the business and we look forward to nurturing our commitment to working with the travel trade and partnerships, which now accounts for around 60% of our business, and growing our vibrant network of new partners under her leadership.”

The new role will enable Michelle Daniels, the line’s global head of commercial, to concentrate on Voyages to Antiquity’s international business, supporting the Australia and New Zealand business and further drive growth in the US and Canada.