Uniworld hires new president

Uniworld has announced that Ellen Bettridge is to take over as president and chief executive. She will take over from Guy Young, who is being promoted internally.

The announcement was made by Brett Tollman, the chief executive of Uniworld’s parent company, The Travel Corporation.  Tollman said: “It is my great privilege and pleasure to welcome Ellen to our team at Uniworld.  I have known and admired Ellen for many years.  She is a superbly capable and talented travel industry professional, with an exceptional reputation and a winning track-record.  I am confident that Ellen will make a consequential and instrumental contribution to Uniworld’s performance and success, and the team and I very much look forward to working closely with her.”

Bettridge said: “It is an honour for me to take the helm of the world’s finest river cruise line.  I look forward to partnering with Brett and collaborating with the entire Uniworld team to ensure that the company continues to lead and maintain the standard of excellence in the river cruise industry, as well as to create innovative experiences, programs and services that appeal to the most discerning and inspired travelers throughout the world.”

Bettridge will manage and oversee Uniworld’s global business, including operations and financial performance, product development, guest experience, service enrichment and onboard and onshore programme.

Young will take on two newly created roles: global brand engagement officer at The Travel Corporation, reporting to Brett Tollman, and president of Costsaver, Trafalgar’s value brand, reporting to Gavin Tollman, CEO of Trafalgar.

Brett Tollman added: “Guy and I have worked together for over 25 years now, and he has led Uniworld to new heights and exceptional accolades during his tenure of nearly a decade.  Both Gavin and I congratulate Guy on his accomplishments, and we very much look forward to working closely with him as we continue to drive and grow some of the very best brands in the travel industry.”