Fred Holidays appoints Paul Mellon as business development manager

Fred Holidays has appointed Paul Mellon as business development manager, hailing his “vast experience” in the travel industry.

Mellon, who takes up the role on February 12, will join from his position as key account manager at Riviera Travel.

His main focus will be supporting the company’s general sales agency river cruise partners, working alongside product manager Andy Hawke and relationship executive Brooke Dunn.

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Mellon said: “I am confident that my previous experience with river cruising and escorted tours will prove valuable in helping me achieve my targets and grow awareness of the business.”

Aside from Riviera, Mellon has also previously held roles at The Holiday Team, Funway Holidays, Western & Oriental and Wendy Wu Tours.

In his new job, reporting to head of business development Laura Wilson, he will work on optimising business opportunities through active accounts, expanding distribution reach and increasing brand awareness.

Tricia Birmingham, Fred Holidays’ director of tour operations, said: “We are delighted to welcome Paul who is highly respected and skilled.

“His vast experience means that he is a perfect fit for our business and will be a huge asset to us as we target strategic growth and aim to become one of the best operators in the industry.”

Vicky Billing, Riviera’s head of trade and partnerships for the UK and Ireland, said: “We’d like to thank Paul for his hard work and commitment during his tenure at Riviera and we wish him all the best for the future.”