Becky Francis joins Quark Expeditions as EMEA regional sales director

Appointment reflects the line's continuing investment in trade sales as a pivotal driver of its global growth

The Seattle-headquartered polar cruise specialist Quark Expeditions has recruited Becky Francis (pictured) to be Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) regional sales director, based in London, UK.

Francis joins a team headed by US-based Beth Mercier, who has been promoted to senior director of global partnership sales. Mercier has 15 years of experience in the expedition cruise industry and will drive relationships with global consortia, host agencies and strategic accounts.

Quark Expeditions said the recent appointments in its sales team “reflect the company’s continuing investment in trade sales as a pivotal driver of its global growth”.

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Previously, EMEA trade sales coverage was managed from North America but the appointment for Francis in the UK means the responsibility will shift to this region. 

Francis joined the cruise line earlier this month after leaving her role of sales director for TTC Tour Brands in the UK.

Quark Expeditions issued an announcement, stating: “Francis brings to the company an exceptional track record for strategic partnership development and the management of five world-class touring brands. Becky is an award-winning innovator in global sales training and programme development.”

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Announcing her new role on LinkedIn, Francis said: “The prospect of guiding and collaborating with such a talented and dedicated group of individuals fills me with immense excitement. Together, we’ll be charting new territories in the world of expedition travel whilst curating unforgettable experiences that redefine adventure.

“I’m absolutely pumped to dive into the world of expedition travel. I can’t wait to contribute and educate our trade partners across EMEA on the exciting products we have to offer.”

To support agents, the Travelopia-owned cruise line recently launched its Partner Portal offering, which includes Parker the Polar Bear, the industry’s first real-time, AI-driven virtual polar resource.