Khiri Travel has appointed representatives for UK and Australia and launched a service-focused sales campaign. The new drive is designed to expand and diversify Khiri’s source markets based on high levels of service and uniquely innovative travel products. The sales campaign by the Mekong region tour operator runs September to November 2012.

Two experienced travel industry figures have been hired to drive the expansion. Effective immediately, Mr Jonathan Wilkins has been appointed as Khiri Travel Sales Representative – UK. Ms Noelene Henderson has been appointed as Khiri Travel Sales Representative – Australia.

Mr Wilkins has over 20 years experience in sales and contracting, working for travel brands such as British Airways, First Choice and Hilton.

Ms Henderson has also handled leading hospitality brands with an Asian focus: Singapore Airlines, Bvlgari, and Hotel de la Paix, among others.

“Both Noelene and Jonathan bring great passion, experience and a large number of travel trade contacts to our expansion plans,” said Khiri Travel Group CEO and co-founder, Willem Niemeijer. “We are also looking at further expansion through the future appointment of sales reps in Germany, China and the United States,” he said.
Since its creation in 1994 in Bangkok, Khiri Travel has grown to include nine offices in five Mekong region countries. Growth has been built by supplying innovative B2B travel solutions across a wide range of products, primarily to Dutch, Belgian, American and Canadian travel agents.

The hiring of UK and Australian representatives is the latest step in Khiri’s planned expansion. The company has this year rebranded, made strategic new hires for senior positions and realigned staff teams and priorities. It is now entering the execution phase with a planned sales campaign with specific targets.

“Authentic travel experiences, passion and a commitment to a socially responsible triple bottom line are still part of Khiri’s standard operating procedure,” said Niemeijer. “We have focused on building a team which shares our unique vision as a values-led tour operator committed to responsible travel in the Mekong region and beyond. Khiri Travel is now ready to enter new markets with confidence,” he said.