The appointment marks the latest investment by the TTG Top 50 Travel Agency-winning business, which now operates nine branches across Cheshire, Merseyside and the Isle of Man and has ambitious plans to further grow its retail estate.

Monaghan joins from Kuoni, where he spent 13 years, having previously worked at Co-operative Travel. He brings 29 years' travel industry experience spanning independent high street retail, mainstream retail and luxury tour operating.

He will oversee the performance of Perfect Getaways' nine retail branches, replacing Sarah Guy, who joined the business in the same role in late 2023. TTG understands Guy is pursuing a career outside travel. 

The agency has expanded from seven to nine shops over the past two years and has previously outlined plans to double its retail estate by 2028 through a combination of new openings and acquisitions.

Last year, the business reported record annual bookings of more than £22.5 million, up from £18 million the previous year, while Co-Director Dave Palmer said the agency was targeting £28 million in sales and a network of around 19 shops by 2028.

Monaghan said he was "absolutely delighted" to be joining the business. 

"Perfect Getaways has built an outstanding reputation as Merseyside and Cheshire's No. 1 travel agency, and I am proud to be joining such a successful, customer-focused and ambitious team," he said.

"I look forward to supporting the company's continued growth, working closely with colleagues across the region, and helping even more customers create unforgettable travel experiences."

Nicola Palmer, Co-Director of Perfect Getaways, said the agency's continued expansion had created the need for a new regional sales manager.

"The company continues to grow and open up new opportunities," she said. "We wanted a Regional Sales Manager who could build on the great work already done and take our retail shops forward – and we are certain James is the person to do it."