The appointment ensures the operator has a dedicated, on-the-ground contact for agents in the region, extending a trade partnerships team that already covers England, Wales and Scotland.
Martin joins from Terra Travel after almost seven years there spent as a senior travel consultant. In her new role, Martin will work across Gold Medal and its portfolio of sister brands, providing agent training, sales support and market insight, with a focus on strengthening trade relationships.
Gold Medal launched its new-look trade partnerships executive model 18 months ago and has since grown the team to six, the most recent addition being Midlands-based Hannah Butler, who joined the group Midcounties Co-operative Travel in September.
Managing director Simon Applebaum said agents in Northern Ireland wanted a "frontline" presence from tour operators, rather than having to rely solely on phone or email support.
"Agents in Northern Ireland deserve someone at the end of the street, not just the end of a phone or via email," said Applebaum. "We believe the best way to show our commitment is to give them a dedicated person who can visit them when they need, sit with them at their desks, and really understand the challenges and opportunities that they encounter."
Director of trade partnerships Karen Fletcher said Martin would spend much of her time on the road visiting stores and meeting homeworkers delivering "face-to-face training" and product updates.
Agents in Northern Ireland interested in meeting Martin are advised to contact their usual Gold Medal representative.
Martin added: "Being the first trade partnerships executive on the ground in Northern Ireland is a real achievement for me, and a great opportunity to enhance the strong relationships that are already in place through dedicated and visible support for our partners."
