Abercrombie & Kent has confirmed plans to grow its agency sales team following the departure of trade sales manager Mark Harris. 

The luxury operator said Harris’ departure had “created an opportunity” for it to expand its sales team to “better serve the business’ trade channel”, which has grown to exceed pre-pandemic levels.

The company, which also owns group touring specialist Cox & Kings, said it plans to hire two agency sales managers for the south east and south west. The new recruits will work with Richard Hey, who covers the midlands and the north, and Jason Kemp, who covers the north east, Scotland and Northern Ireland. 

Abercrombie & Kent said it had already started the recruitment process and was welcoming applications from candidates “who share its passion for travel and dedication to providing exceptional service and support to the trade channel”.

The operator said it had further increased support to agency partners this year through additional marketing investment, an increase in agent fam trips and “highly competitive” incentives.

Director of sales James Coughlan (pictured) said: ‘We are extremely grateful for Mark's contribution to the business, and we wish him well in his future endeavours. His departure has given us an opportunity to expand our sales team and continue to deliver on our promise to provide the best possible service and support to our trade agents.

“We are excited to welcome new members to our sales team and look forward to working together to drive growth and success for A&K, Cox & Kings, and our valued travel trade partners.”