Hurtigruten Group has boosted its presence in the Asia-Pacific region with new key appointments across its sales, marketing, PR and customer service teams.According to Damian Perry, Managing Director for Asia-Pacific, the expanded team will support the growing demand for the company’s two brands: Hurtigruten and HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions).“As our business continues to evolve, we want to ensure we can best support our industry partners, agents and consumers across Hurtigruten’s Original Coastal Express and Premium Signature Voyages, as well as HX expedition cruises,” Perry said.“Additionally, bringing our PR and communications activity in-house will help strengthen relationships with travel and news media in the region.”
Kirsty Fruin joins the APAC commercial team as Regional Sales Manager (QLD/WA/SA) based in Brisbane after emigrating from Scotland. Fruin has accrued a wealth of cruise and travel knowledge through her previous roles, including in the UK at Fred Olsen Travel.Christina Koullas joins Hurtigruten Group’s Melbourne office in the new position of PR & Communications Manager – APAC. Koullas 20+ years of travel PR experience include working with Spirit of Tasmania, DMCs in Europe and running her own PR agency where she consulted for Hurtigruten. She says the company’s ongoing innovation and focus on responsible travel drew her to the role.The Customer Service Centre in Melbourne expands with Briohny Black and Laura Lund joining as CSC Consultants to manage advisor and consumer enquiries. Lund has worked for over a decade in retail management, accounts and customer resolution. Meanwhile, Black boasts 18 years in travel with tenures at APT and Captain’s Choice specialising in sales and tour consulting.Two more additions to the Melbourne head office are Jemma Gormack, who brings her adventurous New Zealand spirit to the team, and Emily Coltman from the UK. In their new Marketing Executive roles, they will utilise their strong digital and marketing experience having previously worked across a range of industries.Lead image: MS Trollfjord at Hjørundfjord in spring | Credit: Hurtigruten/Facebook – Preben Nilsen
