Industry veteran Lisa McAuley has been named as the new Managing Director of World Travel Holdings UK, the parent company of Cruise118, SixStarCruises and RiverVoyages.
She succeeds Alison Earnshaw and will take on the role on 1 October 2025, when Alison will step down.
Lisa joins from Hays Travel where she is Group Director of Strategy. She was also previously MD of Gold Medal and, prior to that, MD of Silversea.
She also launched Silver Travel Advisor, an information source for the over-50s traveller, which also books holidays.
“Lisa’s extensive background in the cruise industry, along with her strategic insight and proven success, will enhance our already outstanding team and propel WTH UK forward,” said Jeff Tolkin, co-Chairman and CEO of World Tavel Holdings, WTH UK’s parent company.
“Her professional expertise is matched by her collaborative nature, genuine demeanour, and straightforward approach, making her an excellent fit for our UK organisation.”
Lisa said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be joining WTH UK, further building upon what Alison and the team have achieved. I look forward to working with the team on both current and new initiatives, and ensuring we’re best placed to capitalise on growth.”
She will be based at the WTH UK office in Chorley and will lead a team of directors who oversee all UK functions.
Hays Chair, Dame Irene Hays, said: “World Travel Holdings is a business I have great respect for, and this is an excellent opportunity for Lisa, who achieved a great deal during her time with us as Director of Strategy. I extend huge thanks to Lisa for her significant impact on our business, we are sorry to lose her and wish her every success in her new role.”
Lisa joined Hays in 2021 as Non-Executive Director before becoming Director of Strategy two years ago.
Hays hasn’t said if it will be appointing a replacement for Lisa following her departure.
