MONTREAL — After a successful career at Alio for 18 years and then a stint at Canandes, Michèle Rauzon has been appointed National Director of Sales and Development Canada and U.S. for new company ‘5 Continents’, founded by another well-known industry veteran, David Boigné.

“More than a director of business development, Michèle will be an ambassador for the concept and our services,” Boigné told Travelweek’s sister publication, ProfessionVoyages.com. Boigné is best known for his time at Exotic Tours / Boomerang Tours.

“We were looking for someone who will represent us and who will inspire confidence and we are happy to announce that it will be Michèle,” he added. “She will be present at industry events and will visit travel agencies. We will also organize educotours and webinars. Her expertise is solid and reliable.”

Working together with tour operators and travel agencies, 5 Continents calls itself a business partner that will bring the expertise of receptives from all over the world.

It is an intermediary that does not sell to direct customers and does not compete with tour operators either. All professionals seeking quality travel experiences can use their services.

Rauzon told ProfessionVoyages.com that what motivates her in this project is to work alongside travel professionals and provide them with innovative services that are especially useful.

“I like the unique concept developed by 5 Continents,” says Rauzon. “I think it’s logical and natural in the current context. There are many agencies that make their own groups with local receptives directly, but it’s not so simple. They can now go through us and ensure the quality of the experience at destination.”

She adds: “I know the industry and its needs. At the travel agency level, my relationships have been in place for a long time. My main challenge will be to become an expert on destinations I do not know yet, but I like to learn, it does not scare me!”

Rauzon also notes that she represents two beautiful high-end villa properties on the West Coast of Barbados and she will be bringing this portfolio with her to 5 Continents. The two seaside resorts, St. Peters Bay and Port Ferdinand, are both under the UNNA Living umbrella. The luxury properties are fully compatible with the high-end incentive and group travel expertise offered by 5 Continents, say Rauzon and Boigné.

Rauzon’s appointment officially takes effect Feb. 25. She can be reached at michele.rauzon@5continentsca.com.