Jessica Shelton-Agar to leave APT in February

APT has announced that head of sales Jessica Shelton-Agar is to depart the company after 10 “happy and successful years”.

The touring and river cruise specialist operator said Shelton-Agar, who joined in 2012, will be emigrating to the Middle East “to start a new life in the sun” in February.

She was praised for having played “a key role” in growing the firm’s sales and brand presence in the UK.

Shelton-Agar was involved in the trade launch of Travelmarvel’s new small yacht cruising in Croatia for 2022, and three Travelmarvel Contemporary Class River Ships on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers; as well as two new ships on the Mekong.

Paul Melinis, APT’s UK managing director, said: “Although the team and I will miss Jessica terribly, I am thrilled for her, as she pursues new opportunities in the Middle East.

“I would like to personally thank her for her outstanding contribution, and we look forward to keeping closely in touch with her as she embarks on her new adventure.”

Shelton-Agar said: “I have cherished my time at APT and so it is with a heavy heart that I say farewell to the team that has become like family, and to the amazing brands that I love so much.

“I plan to stay within the travel industry and look forward to announcing my next role soon.”

APT is actively recruiting for a new head of sales and business development.

Melinis said: “This is a superb role for anyone who is a sales-driven leader, results-orientated, with a passion for travel, and who thrives as part of a strong, fun and vibrant team.

“It’s a very exciting time to be joining APT, as the brand celebrates turning 95 with some incredible product launches and diversification into new destinations and travel styles, so our new head of sales and business development will have plenty to look forward to.”