Global Travel Collection (GTC) has promoted two members of its senior management team as part of its growth and pandemic recovery strategy.

Francesca Mendola, pictured here, has been elevated to Director of the Global Account Management team to oversee the “onboarding, retention, growth and success of GTC UK’s network of independent travel advisors”. 

Alexandra Habuc, previously Human Resources Manager for Travel Leaders Group, has been appointed HR Director to prioritise the support and development of GTC’s team members.

The group, whose brands include Protravel International, Tzell Travel and Colletts Travel, grew its pool of independent travel advisors in the UK by 28% in 2020 and hopes to expand at a similar rate this year.

Jason Oshiokpekhai, Managing Director of Global Travel Collection UK, said he was proud to champion internal development and recognise talent from within the organisation.

“In the past year, both Internova Travel Group UK and Global Travel Collection UK have undergone major transformations during the most difficult period in our industry’s history,” he said.

“We’ve nevertheless been able to grow our network of independent travel advisors, add new client support and establish GTC UK as a standalone brand. This success is owed in large part to the exceptional efforts of Francesca Mendola and Alexandra Habuc, who will continue to drive positive change in their new roles as directors.

“Continuing to develop talent and allowing people to flourish will be a fundamental part of the travel industry’s recovery. Alexandra and Francesca are absolutely testament to this: thanks to their leadership, innovation and strategic thinking, Global Travel Collection UK has not only weathered the storm, but is poised to take full advantage of the pent-up demand for all types of travel.”