P&O Cruises has appointed Richard Waugh as its new Business Development Manager (BDM) for P&O Cruises and Cunard in New Zealand.
Previously P&O Cruises BDM for Queensland, Mr Waugh’s appointment to his new role coincides with his nomination for ‘Best Sales Executive – Industry Supplier’ in this year’s AFTA National Tourism Industry Awards.
Mr Waugh, who originally hails from Hamilton, is eager to bring his vast knowledge of the cruise industry home to New Zealand following more than two years in his Queensland BDM position.
“Cruising is growing at an incredible rate in New Zealand as more and more Kiwis discover how easy and relaxing a holiday at sea is,” Mr Waugh said. “With so many features and activities onboard ships now, cruising is a great alternative to a traditional land-based holiday.”
Mr Waugh said he had fallen in love with the P&O brand after starting work with the cruise line in 2014.
”Now is the right time to bring my passion for P&O holidays home to New Zealand,” he said.
His appointment follows the launch of P&O’s first Melbourne Cup voyage from Auckland this November ahead of a record-breaking season in 2018.
P&O Cruises Director of Sales Ryan Taibel said Mr Waugh was one of the strongest agents in the cruise line’s business.
“His appointment highlights our commitment to New Zealand as we look to grow the market even further.
“Next year will be a huge cruise season for our brand as we deploy Pacific Jewel in New Zealand for six months carrying a record 45,000 Kiwis on cruises from Auckland, up from 36,000 this year.
“It’s critical that we have great representatives like Richard in the market to help drive growth and educate and excite the industry about our product,” Mr Taibel said.
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