Classic Vacations Expands Sales Organization
Classic Vacations has significantly expanded its sales organization, nearly tripling its size since the beginning of 2026. This initiative represents a major commitment to enhancing support for travel advisors, featuring 18 new hires in 2026 and plans to recruit five additional team members. The strategy aims at improving regional coverage, increasing specialization, and providing more resources for advisors to help grow their businesses.
A Broader Investment
The expansion is part of a larger investment in Classic’s commercial operations, designed to strengthen the company’s connection with its customers across the U.S. “Travel advisors have always been at the heart of Classic,” said Vijayeta James, chief commercial officer. “We aim to be a strategic growth partner, closely aligned with their businesses and proactive in identifying opportunities.”
The “Hypercare” Approach
Central to this strategy is a concept called “hypercare,” which combines personalized support with a deep understanding of customers’ needs and market dynamics. The expanded sales team now consists of 34 members organized into seven teams, ensuring strong regional coverage and specialist expertise.
Regional Sales Teams
Classic has established three regional teams for focused market engagement:
- Western Region: Led by Sue Ferguson
- Central Region: Led by Julia Jakkaraju
- Eastern Region: Led by Dimitri Andre
These teams collaborate with advisors to formulate growth strategies and connect them with Classic’s tools and resources.
Group Sales
Jeanne Flood oversees Group Sales and Operations, leveraging her extensive experience to support various group bookings including weddings and meetings.
Host & Key Accounts
Carmen Gashnikov manages Host Agency Accounts, enhancing partnerships through strategic planning and engagement.
New Business Development & Sales Support
Led by Tiffani Gilardi, the New Business Development team focuses on onboarding and educating new advisors. Kathy Ellis oversees Sales Support, coordinating events, registrations, and recognition programs.
A Shift in Sales Strategy
This expanded organization signifies a transition from traditional sales approaches to a consultative model. The focus is on understanding and addressing the unique needs of advisors to help convert growth opportunities into sales.
“As the advisor landscape becomes more sophisticated, we must evolve with it,” James noted. Emphasizing the company’s commitment, she stated, “Hypercare means knowing our customers and bringing the right resources to help them grow. Their growth is our growth.”
