Stephen Taylor has been hired for the newly-created role in the wake of eleven agencies joining the Chester-based consortium since the start of April – with seven being start-up businesses new to the travel industry.

Reporting to Global’s commercial director, Cherie Richards, Taylor takes responsibility for overseeing new business opportunities and revenue streams and additional support to suppliers and agent partners.

He was most recently brand and strategy manager at First Class Holidays and has previously held a number of roles in contracting at Trailfinders.

Richards said: “It’s always great to welcome new members to the group. We are very confident that our offering to members stacks up very favourably, with our new technology, commercial deals, marketing and back-office support all perfect for both new and existing travel agencies.

“The feedback we get from members is that they love the way we can help them focus on selling by providing efficient and importantly prompt support to their business. Attracting 11 new members is great because it proves the industry is buoyant and that clients still appreciate the value of good agents.”

Meanwhile, Emily Boyne has been promoted from her role in business support to join Global’s events team, where she will assist with fam trips, awards, ship visits and other member activity.

She took up the position on August 1.

Boyne and Taylor’s appointments coincide with Global’s on-going 25th anniversary celebrations involving a raft of VIP trips, events and training days, and which will culminate in November with a four-night conference at Universal Orlando Resort, Florida.