Royal Caribbean names Aaron Langford new sales director UK&I

During his 16 years with the line and wider Royal group, Langford has held posts with both Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean International, including a secondment to Royal’s Shanghai office when it started cruising ex-China.

“I’m thrilled to come back to the place where it all began nearly 16 years ago, and I’m delighted to continue my journey with this outstanding company," said Langford. "The UK and Ireland market is pivotal for the future growth of Royal Caribbean International, and I’m excited to lead what I believe to be the best sales team in the industry.

"We have so much to talk about and offer to our new and returning guests in the coming years, and I look forward to strengthening the successful relationships we have built with our fantastic trade partners."

Sales enablement manager EMEA Lewis, meanwhile, has been promoted to the role of sales enablement director; she will oversee the line’s trade marketing function, as well as revenue management team liaison across the EMEA region.

In addition, she will continue to lead the line’s UK sales function until Langford rejoins the team in June, a responsibility she took on late last year following the departure of Stuart Byron.

Ben Bouldin, Royal Caribbean International vice-president EMEA, said: "Having worked hand in hand with Aaron over the years, I am delighted to welcome him back to the UK to take on an exciting new challenge in his career.

"It has also been a great pleasure to promote several team members in recent weeks, including the amazing Nicki Lewis, who has been with the business for more than 30 years.

"Career growth is incredibly important to everyone at Royal Caribbean, and I’m immensely proud to be part of a business where we recognise, invest in, and develop talent globally."