Former M&S retail director to join Hays Travel board

An experienced operations director will join Hays Travel’s board on January 1.

Helen Milford has worked for a number of major organisations including Boots, Asda, Sainsbury’s, and Marks & Spencer, where she was retail director until stepping down in September.

Milford will join the agency as non-executive director, following the appointment of Jo Rzymowska to the board in October.

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Milford said: “I am delighted to be joining Hays Travel at what is a pivotal and exciting time as the business continues to grow in size and reputation.

“I booked my first holiday at the Seaham branch of Hays Travel, where it all started and where I grew up.

“As a business with such a strong culture and values I am really impressed with how colleagues are truly empowered to deliver for their customers and communities.”

Dame Irene Hays said the agency “could not be happier” at the appointment of Milford, as she will bring “unparalleled experience across retail, people, and transformation”.

She added: “Helen shares our values, and – just like Hays Travel – was born in Seaham right here in the northeast of England.

“We have had an exceptional year and seen our retail operation flourish and expand, making now the right time for us to seek advice and challenge.

“Helen is the perfect fit for Hays Travel and we are looking forward to working with her in the new year.”

Milford attended Hays Travel’s annual retail conference in Portugal in November.