Travel Department recruits Scotland trade sales manager

Former Bedsonline Irish market key account manager Gemma Walker has joined Travel Department as the company opens a new agent booking portal.

Walker becomes trade sales manager for Scotland having previously worked for Newmarket Holidays for 11 years helping create its trade development programme across the UK.

Her appointment came as the escorted tours and group travel specialist unveiled an upgrade to its agent booking portal, designed to enhance the booking experience. 

The booking process is being streamlined, giving agents the tools to highlight all elements of a customer’s holiday, from itineraries to excursions, accommodation and flights, all in real-time.

A range of incentives to support its drive through the trade include several fam trips to give agents the chance to experience Travel Department holidays firsthand.

The launch follows an “unprecedented surge” in trade bookings and follows a pledge made last summer to expand trade distribution.

Chief executive James Coughlan said: “We are delighted to have secured the services of Gemma and welcome her to the Travel Department team. 

“Gemma’s extensive experience in the escorted tours sector will be invaluable to our objectives of widening the Travel Department brand footprint in Scotland and building on our successes to date.

“Our new agent booking portal reflects our dedication to supporting travel agents as valued partners. 

“It provides a seamless, intuitive experience, empowering agents to deliver exceptional service and detailed holiday insights to their customers. We are proud to strengthen our partnerships with this next-level innovation.”

Walker added: “I am extremely excited to be working with such a great team, who have extensive knowledge and commitment to making memorable experiences for both customers and travel partners. 

“I am delighted to be meeting and offering any assistance with our travel partners in Scotland and want to ensure we continue to offer a great level of service from start to finish.”