Multi award-winning travel agency Not Just Travel and its recruitment arm, The Travel Franchise, has appointed Chris Harrison as its Chief Commercial Officer.

It’s the first of multiple high-ranking appointments at the company, based out of Bournemouth Airport.

Chris takes on the pivotal role with over 24 years’ experience in travel, and a diversified skill set from roles in both large and medium-sized companies

Co-founders Paul Harrison and Steve Witt, pictured left, are surrounding themselves with key industry talent and experience as the company moves into its next phase of growth.

As Managing Director of Dawson and Sanderson, and formerly Head of Trade Sales, Head of Trade Purchasing and Distribution Director at Thomas Cook, Chris has been described as a huge asset to the newly created leadership team.

He brings with him a wealth of experience and connections.

In his new role, Chris will oversee all aspects of business development and revenue generation for the company’s members.

They include some of the most important areas of the business such as learning and development opportunities and creating better tools, systems and technology for consultants to utilise.

Franchisees with The Travel Franchise train to become fully expert travel consultants with Not Just Travel, the company’s consumer-facing brand.

Chris will also oversee the expansion of the Not Just Travel trade team as it continues its focus on supporting their trade partners.

In 2022 and through the start of 2023, Not Just Travel developed stronger trade partnerships with the primary remit of growing sales through better collaboration, tools and learning.

Chris said: “Together, The Travel Franchise and its consumer brand Not Just Travel is an exceptional business that I’m proud to be a part of.

“I’m excited by Paul and Steve’s vision and the potential of the company and can’t wait to take the business to the next level.”

Co-founder Steve said: “We were highly selective in who we wanted for this unique and important role and so asked the best leaders in our industry who they would recommend.

“Chris’ name kept coming back to us time and time again.

“His excellent reputation precedes him and we knew he was the best person for the job.

“He is a high-achiever who has generated high growth in companies of similar size to us.

“It’s a big signing for us, and kicks off our game-changing senior and middle management recruitment drive.

“We already have an incredible team who got us where we are today, but we are elevating our talent above and beyond what we have ever done before.”

• notjusttravel.com