Yacht expedition cruise operator, Atlas Ocean Voyages, has expanded its North American sales team.
Cathy Kusuma (pictured) has been appointed Vice President of Sales and will spearhead the sales team in the field and Fort Lauderdale headquarters. Her mission is to support travel advisors and partners to grow their knowledge of Atlas’ expeditions and boost sales.
This sales team expansion aligns with Atlas Ocean Voyages’ goal to establish a strong foundation for growth, the company said.
With the introduction of new ships and destination expansion, this move aims to ensure that the company is well-prepared for continued success.
Face-to-face presentations and nurturing relationships with travel advisors are highly valued, reflecting the company’s focus on hyper-targeted approaches to engaging with the right agencies and advisors.
Kusuma has set clear objectives, emphasising the need to increase Atlas Ocean Voyages’ awareness and visibility.
The newly expanded Key Account Partner Programme will lead the team’s strategic initiatives for key partners. In addition, the team will prioritise outreach programmes to establish deeper connections with travel partners.
Nikki Shanley, appointed Senior Director of Sales, Northwest US & Key Accounts, is based in northern California and focuses on key accounts in the western US territory.
With extensive experience, Shanley’s territory covers North California, Alaska, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and Western Canada.
Oya Bekisoglu assumes the role of Senior Director, South Central US & Key Accounts, based in Texas. Her territory encompasses Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana. She will also support several key accounts in the Central and Eastern regions.
She returns to Atlas Ocean Voyages with 25 plus years of industry experience, including a background in air.
Andres ‘Andy’ Fuentes, the new Regional Sales Director, Southeastern US, will focus on states including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee.
Fuentes brings 18 plus years of cruise industry expertise to his role, having worked with cruise lines, such as Crystal Cruises, Oceania Cruises, and Scenic Cruises USA.
These strategic additions and promotions in the North American sales team underscore Atlas Ocean Voyages’ dedication to enhancing its services and furthering its reach within the travel advisor community, the company said.
Future growth plans also include the expansion of sales outreach globally, including Canada and the UK.
