Richard Sofer has been appointed as the new commercial director of TUI UK & Ireland and will take up his position on the TUI UK & Ireland board with effect from December.
As commercial director Sofer will have responsibility for TUI UK & I’s product offering, yield management and aviation planning.
Sofer joined TUI UK in September 2016 as managing director of Thomson Cruises and has successfully led the cruise team through the launch of Discovery 2 in May 2017 and the recent rebrand to Marella Cruises as Thomson changed to TUI.
During his short time in the role Sofer has demonstrated a great focus on business performance with the continued growth of the cruise business and outstanding senior leadership qualities, the company said in a statement.
Prior to joining TUI, Sofer worked for GLH Hotels where he held senior financial and chief executive roles.
His last role was chief executive of Thistle & Every Hotels where he held responsibility for the development and launch of new hotel brands, as well as being accountable for the profits on existing hotels, and was a member of the executive board.
Nick Longman, managing director of TUI UK & Ireland, said: “I am delighted to welcome Richard Sofer to the UK & Ireland board.
“He brings a wealth of experience and expertise and to the business, with the cruise business delivering excellent results and launches under his guidance this year.”
The appointment of the new managing director for Marella Cruises will be confirmed shortly.