Virgin Voyages has promoted SJ Walker from UK Director of Sales to UK Market Director, effective immediately.
SJ will oversee the cruise line’s commercial growth in the UK, covering sales, trade partnerships, distribution and market development as part of her expanded remit.
Continuing to report into Vice President of Growth and International Sales & Marketing Stephen Hopkins, she will retain leadership of Virgin Voyage’s nine-person UK trade sales team, in addition to providing strategic direction to a further three colleagues across trade engagement and international marketing.
SJ’s appointment follows a ‘record-breaking’ summer for Virgin Voyages in the UK, with revenue up 30% year-on-year.
SJ said: “The momentum behind Virgin Voyages in the UK right now is incredible and I’m hugely excited to have the opportunity to lead the market through its next phase of growth.
“We’ve had a record-breaking summer, but what is most exciting is what sits behind those numbers. More First Mates (agents) are experiencing the brand, their confidence in selling us is growing and we’re seeing customers come back to Virgin Voyages time and again. There is a real sense that the UK market understands what makes us different and wants more of it.
“Our First Mates have been fundamental to that success. We have invested significantly in giving them the tools, support and first-hand experiences they need to sell Virgin Voyages with confidence and that will remain at the heart of our strategy.”
Vice President of Growth and International Sales & Marketing Stephen Hopkins added: “The UK has become a powerhouse market for Virgin Voyages and the results we are seeing are testament both to the strength of the brand and to the exceptional work SJ and the UK team have done with our First Mate community.
“We have always believed Virgin Voyages has the potential to redefine what an adults-only holiday at sea can look like. In the UK, that proposition is resonating more strongly than ever and we are seeing that translate into record revenue, higher-value bookings, exceptional repeat rates and growing demand as we introduce the brand to new audiences and destinations.
“SJ has been instrumental in that journey. She combines a deep understanding of the UK trade with commercial ambition, infectious energy and a genuine passion for our brand and our partners. Expanding her role recognises the way she already thinks about the business as a whole, and I’m incredibly excited about what she and the team will deliver next.”
