TORONTO — Direct Travel has welcomed Joelle Goldman as its new Vice President, Host Services.

Goldman, who’s based in Chicago, comes to Direct Travel from Virtuoso where she served as Director of Member Relations, U.S. & Canada. She will be closely involved with the Vision Travel brand in Canada, which has an extensive history in the independent travel advisor sector and is growing its portfolio of hosted travel agencies.

“Direct travel is one of the most respected travel companies in leisure travel and I am thrilled to be joining the leisure leadership team,” said Goldman. “We are in the middle of interesting times but the future looks great at Direct Travel.”

Gerard Bellino, Executive Vice President, Leisure, said the team is “delighted” to welcome Goldman.

“She brings a wealth of knowledge and understands the importance of creating a community within independent travel advisors,” he said. “As the landscape of travel is changing, we expect an increase in independent travel advisors and independent travel agencies looking for a host that provides stability and fosters growth.”

The addition of Goldman follows the recent appointment of Shelby Donley to the role of Vice President, Luxury Services.