Thomas Cook UK & Ireland has confirmed Phil Gardner has joined the company as its new head of merchandising. 

Reporting directly to commercial director Chris Mottershead, his role will focus on bridging the commercial functions of product, yield, retail and online, driving greater collaboration and enhanced commercial decision-making across the business.

Gardner was previously at TUI UK, where he was general manager, commercial for Thomson and Island Cruises, responsible for the strategic direction for all commercial aspects of the TUI UK cruise business.

“I am delighted to be joining Thomas Cook at such an exciting time,” said Gardner.

“I am really looking forward to working closely with all the internal teams across the tour operation and distribution divisions as well as our external partners on driving the next phase in Thomas Cook’s development.”

The UK business is key to the overall progression of Thomas Cook Group, with the arrival marking another step in the company’s journey to accelerate the delivery of its strategy for sustainable, profitable growth.