Chris Townson, Managing Director, UK/Europe for Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has confirmed he’ll be relocating with his family from his Manchester base in the UK to Brisbane, Australia in the near future.

Overnight, Townson said on social media that his repositioning will see him working hybrid hours, splitting his day between fielding calls with his team and key partners in the UK/Europe, and “doing the work”.

He assured partners in his home market that he will be back to UK shores several times each year “to continue face-to-face with our team and key partners”.

Townson said his team in the that region would be expanding, alongside a number of promotions. Angela Sloan takes on the new responsibilities as Sales Director, Dawn Quinn and Lee Evanson are tasked as National Sales Managers, Brian Hynes moves to Head of Sales for Ireland, and newcomer to the brand, David Broad, has been appointed Sales Manager.

Subscribe to LATTE Cruise’s free eNewsletter to keep up to date with everything in the luxury cruise space.

“We have great partners and a super team that we will make sure we continue to deliver the very best across the brand,” Townson added.

In a statement, Uniworld said sales in the UK market are up 35% year-on-year.“This is due in part to having one of the longest-serving and most consistent teams in the industry, both onboard our ships and within our UK sales and marketing team.

“Ang, Dawn and Lee have been with us

for 20 years between them, and have a wealth of passion, experience and strong relationships that have helped our business to thrive.

“I am delighted for them with their promotions and look forward to working with them from my new home in Australia. We have the right team to continue the momentum into 2024, and I will be working flexible hours to ensure that my team and our valued trade partners are serviced and supported even better as we move forward.”

No impact on Uniworld AU/NZ operation

Townson’s move will not have any impact on the day-to-day operation of Uniworld’s current business in Australia. Alice Ager, MD Australia/New Zealand for Uniworld, told LATTE, “nothing changes for our team”.

Townson has been at Uniworld for just over six years. His travel industry career has also included close to 13 years with Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, reporting to Scenic Founder and Chairman, Glen Moroney.