Warner Leisure Hotels recruits cruise industry leader Tony Roberts

Warner Leisure Hotels has appointed Tony Roberts to the newly created role of chief commercial officer as it positions the group for further growth.

Roberts will join the 16-strong hotel group, which markets adults-only breaks, from Seabourn Cruise Line in April, having spent 23 years in the cruise industry.

He is currently vice-president of global commercial operations, guest services and head of UK and Europe for the luxury cruise line, which is part of Carnival Corporation & plc.

He will join Bourne Leisure-owned Warner Leisure Hotels in the newly created role of chief commercial officer.

Roberts joined the Carnival group of brands 23 years ago as a management accountant in the P&O Cruises finance team, holding several roles in finance and qualifying as an accountant.

He moved to customer services and added responsibility for business development and international sales.

After two years in the IT department, Roberts joined the Princess Cruises team and led the UK and Europe team through several periods of growth. He was also chair of cruise trade body Clia UK and Ireland for three years.

Roberts said that Warner Leisure Hotels operates 16 hotels in the UK, including Studley Castle in Warwickshire and Littlecote House in Berkshire, with another soon to "come online".

He added: "Warner Hotels is a growing business so it's a very exciting time to be joining, given the growth plans the organisation has."