It was confirmed on Friday (23 July) Forward would leave Riviera after three years and relocate to the south-west to head up property development company Hoburne Group.

Phil Hullah, Riviera chief executive, paid tribute to Forward. "In his three years with Riviera, he has made a major contribution developing a highly-focused and effective marketing and commercial approach," he said.

"He has excellent business acumen and was a fine colleague. I am sure that both he and Hoburne will thrive. Personally, I wish Jim and his family well as they move their focus to the south-west.”

Forward added: “I am sorry to be leaving Riviera. Moving on to Hoburne Group will provide me with a new and different challenge, but I very much enjoyed my time at Riviera – the business has a very bright future, and I learned a great deal working with Phil and the team."

Hullah confirmed that while Riviera seeks a permanent replacement for, former Saga Travel chief executive Robin Shaw would be "providing the Riviera team with additional business and commercial support".

He added: "Riviera’s management team remains focused on preparing for the resumption of international travel. I am confident we can capitalise on the pent-up demand for travel and meet the commercial challenges of rebuilding the business."