Nick Hindle joins Quark Expeditions as national BDM

Quark Expeditions has recruited Nick Hindle as the new national business development manager (BDM) for the UK and Ireland.

He joins the team on Tuesday (May 28), bringing with him 23 years of experience in travel.

The cruise line said his appointment comes at a “pivotal” moment for Quark Expeditions as it continues to expand its footprint in the rapidly growing UK and Irish market.

He began his travel career as an apprentice with Thomas Cook and advanced to become a senior retail manager at Tui.

Most recently, he has also worked as a BDM in the touring, adventure and luxury travel sectors with Explore Worldwide, Wendy Wu Tours and, most recently, Domes Resorts.

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Becky Francis, EMEA regional sales director, said the previous BDM for UK & Ireland was Sarah Schlederer, who is moving to a newly created role of strategic key account manager to manage pre-existing accounts.

Francis said Schlederer had “grown the market considerably” with tour operators and polar specialists, while Hindle’s new role will have a “core focus on expanding our retail and homeworking channels”.

“With his extensive experience in adventure and luxury travel, Nick brings a wealth of knowledge and a robust network of agent contacts,” said Francis.

“His appointment not only enhances our ability to support retail and homeworking agents across the UK and Ireland but also signifies our dedication to fostering brand awareness and loyalty within the retail space.

“Nick’s passion for adventure and unwavering dedication makes him the perfect ambassador for our brand.”

Hindle said: “I am eager to be back in experiential travel and showcase the benefits of partnering with Quark.

“This rapidly growing market presents tremendous opportunities for our partners to expand their expedition business with us.

“Throughout my career, I’ve built strong relationships with agents and suppliers, and I look forward to further developing these connections.”

Quark Expeditions has recently launched a revamped partner portal and is running its first UK agent incentive programme.

As part of the Great Polar Sweepstakes, 10 agents will have an opportunity to join Quark on a trip to the Antarctic.

The winners will be selected based on accumulated sales, as well as through a points-based lottery system. The booking period for the Great Polar Sweepstakes runs until May 31.