David Selby – director of Thomson Cruise for 11 years – is stepping down it has been confirmed.

TUI UK & Ireland confirmed the decision would allow Selby to seek other opportunities within the industry.

David Burling commercial director of TUI UK & Ireland said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank David for all his efforts in building the Thomson Cruises business.

“In that time he has overseen the transformation of the business from offering a variety of third party ship charters, to a fleet of fully branded ships that form one of the largest UK cruise operations.

“I would particularly like to thank David for the passion and commitment he has given the organisation over the last 25 years.”

TUI UK & Ireland is in the process of recruiting a new director for Thomson Cruises and a successor is expected to be announced in the next few weeks.