Walking holiday specialist Ramble Worldwide has appointed travel trade veteran Wayne Perks as Managing Director.

Wayne, who takes up his new role on 9 September, was most recently Chief Operating Officer at luxury travel company EFR, where he is credited with helping guide the business through its post-pandemic recovery.

He has previously held roles with British Airways, Thomas Cook and Virgin Holidays.

One of his immediate priorities at Ramble Worldwide (known as Ramblers Walking Holidays prior to a rebrand in 2023) will be to broaden its distribution strategy and ‘re-engage’ with travel agents to help grow the business.

A company spokesperson said it will be looking to work more proactively with key agent partners.

Ramble also plans to  promote hiking holidays to ‘Generation X travellers and beyond’, capitalising on what it sees as growing interest in ‘slow and responsible travel’.

“The recent brand refresh will help us to challenge perceptions about hiking holidays and reach out to younger travellers seeking a richer travel experience which connects them to the people and places they’re visiting,” said Wayne.

“There are also lots of opportunities for us to work more closely with agents.”

He is replacing current MD Kevin O’Regan, who is leaving to take time out and travel after 35 years in the industry.