Focus Travel Partnership, the UK’s largest consortium of independent SME travel management companies, has announced the appointment of Dani Ives as Commercial Manager. Dani Ives joined Focus almost four years ago as Events Manager, before being promoted to Partnership Manager in 2021.
Dani Ives’ former responsibilities as Partnership Manager are being assumed by Karina Pomeranceva, who was recently appointed to Focus as Events Executive and Joanne Emerson who joined Focus in March as PR & Marketing Executive. Karina Pomeranceva brings over 10 years’ experience in the events industry to Focus, having held event management roles at BBS Group and Chartered Institute of Taxation. Joanne Emerson’s extensive career includes 10 years with Uniglobe Preferred Travel, and three years with American Express GBT.
Dani will initially hold the role jointly with Hazel Dawson, who has been in the position of Commercial Manager since 2017, and has begun a phased retirement. Hazel Dawson’s contribution to Focus has been invaluable in establishing mutually beneficial supplier agreements, in particular shaping the partnership’s unrivalled air fare programme. She will remain an integral part of the Focus team during the transition period and work closely with Dani Ives on the negotiation of 2024 airline agreements, as well as seeking new opportunities within the supply chain for the overall benefit of Focus TMC Partners
Abby Penston, CEO, Focus Travel Partnership said: “I am delighted that Dani is taking on this joint role alongside Hazel during the transition phase. Dani has a profound understanding of the industry and all areas of the Focus partnership which will be invaluable as we move forwards. Our commercial air programme is a cornerstone of Focus’ offering to our TMC Partners thanks to Hazel’s skill and dedication over the last few years. It was therefore important to carefully craft this transition as Hazel begins her phased retirement, to ensure a seamless and uninterrupted experience for all our TMC Partners and suppliers. Hazel will therefore still play a big part in the negotiations for next year as a valued member of the team.
“I am also delighted to welcome Karina and Joanne to the Focus central team to take on Dani’s former responsibilities and ensure that we continue to deliver the best possible events and marketing support to our TMC Partners and preferred suppliers.
“These new appointments will help us to cement a bright and prosperous future for Focus in order to ensure that the success of our TMC Partners remains our priority and that their businesses continue to thrive,” said Abby Penston.