Silversea has appointed Megan Saunders as its new business development manager in an attempt to improve its relations with the UK trade.

Saunders will be joining Lucy Howe in her existing role as business development manager, as well as the field sales team in the UK. They are tasked with identifying new agents and providing onboarding support for those who are new to the brand, or luxury cruise in general.

Saunders has a number of years of experience in the luxury sector and joins from a similar role at Windstar Cruises, having previously worked at The Cruise Portfolio and in trade partnerships at CLIA.

“This appointment will reinforce our UK team and highlights our commitment to supporting our trade partners in accomplishing their objectives successfully,” said Peter Shanks, managing director UK and Ireland.

“Our travel partners are important key players here at Silversea, with their expertise remaining crucial for our guests.”

Saunders added: “I am delighted to join Silversea at an exciting time of development and growth: with four new ships and two more to come, I am thrilled to be joining at such an exciting time to attract even more discerning guests to Silversea’s luxury cruise offering.”