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Harmer returns to ACE
Andy Harmer is to return to the Association of Cruise Experts, where he will replace Flo Powell as director from November.
Harmer was previously ACE director for three years to 2009, during which time he was credited with growing the membership and he was also responsible for introducing the first ACE UK Cruise Convention and instrumental in launching National Cruise Week.
“ACE is a well respected brand, supported strongly by both agents and cruise lines," said Harmer. "With more agents than ever before actively selling cruises, ACE has a pivotal role in providing them with the knowledge and expertise needed to ensure customer expectations are met and exceeded.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my two years with The Cruise Portfolio and leave with a clearer understanding of the relationship between agents and cruise lines, knowledge that I can use to further develop and drive ACE forward to ensure the organisation continues to contribute to the growth in cruise holidays.”
Jo Rzymowska, Chair of the PSA’s Cruise Section, added: “ACE is in the unique position of being able to provide agents with training on all aspects of cruise holidays. The knowledge they gain from the wide range of training activities is crucial to successfully selling a cruise and Andy has the experience and innovation to deliver the support agents need to grow their business.”
The Cruise Portfolio is seeking a replacement for Harmer. Managing director Edwina Lonsdale said: “During his time at The Cruise Portfolio, Andy put in place a number of initiatives designed to engage the industry more with its luxury brands – Crystal Cruises, Orion Expedition Cruises, Windstar Cruises, Paul Gauguin Cruises and most recently Tauck River Cruises.
Key achievements include the launch of three new cruise lines, the Bespoke series of seminars, the recent Cruise Portfolio Marathon, and reward programmes such as Thank Crystal It’s Friday.
Andy has done exactly the job we hired him to do, raising the profile and understanding of our brands to a new level. We wish him well in the future.”
By Linsey McNeill
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Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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