Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has appointed Justin Stanton as its new sales and marketing director, reporting to managing director Mike Rodwell.

Based at its head office in Ipswich, Suffolk, Stanton has been head of marketing for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines since 2012.

In his new role, he will take responsibility for the sales department, managed by Neil Herbert – head of sales, and public relations, managed by Rachael Jackson – public relations manager, alongside the marketing department.

The role will concentrate on enhancing and further developing Fred. Olsen’s relationships with trade partners, while ensuring that marketing and PR activity continues to drive sales to travel agents, who deliver the majority of bookings.

Justin joined Fred. Olsen in 2006 as marketing services manager, primarily responsible for production of brochures and brand advertising.

Previously, he worked for eight years at the award-winning specialist Tapestry Holidays, latterly as head of marketing.

With more than 20 years’ experience in the travel industry, Stanton started his career as a graduate trainee at Harrods.

Speaking about his new appointment, Stanton said: “I am very pleased to have the opportunity to further develop Fred. Olsen’s position as a leader in smaller-ship cruising.

“We have excellent brand awareness, a superb product – which our guests love – and fantastic support from our trade partners, who are vital to our business.”