First in Service names Shaamil Nathwani partnerships manager for UK, EU

First in Service Travel LTD (F1S) has appointed Shaamil Nathwani as partnerships manager for the United Kingdom and European Union, a newly created role based in London. 

The position is intended to support its London office and broader European operations, including Madrid.

In the role, Nathwani will oversee supplier partner relationships across the UK and Europe and work with advisors in-market on growth, engagement and programme development. 

He will report to Gina Gabbard, chief strategy officer, and join the company’s global Marketing & Partnerships (M&P) team.

“Shaamil’s appointment represents another important step forward in how we support our advisors across the United Kingdom and Europe,” said Fernando Gonzalez, co-founder and chief executive officer of First in Service. 

“As our London presence continues to expand and our European advisor community grows, having a dedicated leader focused on partnerships and supplier strategy ensures we remain deeply connected to local markets while leveraging the full strength of our 1GN (One Global Network).”

Responsibilities and scope

Nathwani will serve as a primary point of contact for UK and EU advisors on supplier engagement, conflict resolution and strategic guidance.

He will work alongside global partners such as Advantage and Virtuoso, support the continued development of F1S’ Boutique Collection and Entertainment Programme, and negotiate additional local supplier agreements tied to the company’s expansion across European markets.

He will also represent F1S at industry events and trade shows.

“Shaamil brings a rare combination of commercial acumen, global hospitality experience, and relationship-driven leadership,” said Gabbard. 

“This role is central to charting the course of our expansion in London, as well as further European opportunities. His ability to bridge local market insights with global strategy will be invaluable as we continue to enhance the advisor experience and deepen our supplier partnerships across the region.”

Nathwani will also support the managing director in leading monthly calls with advisors, act as a link between advisors and global suppliers to ensure local perspectives are reflected in global strategy, and collaborate with Partnership Directors on communication and engagement with preferred partners.

Background

Nathwani brings more than a decade of experience in hospitality, luxury travel and global sales. 

Most recently, he served as global sales manager – lifestyle for Hyatt Hotels, leading sales efforts across corporate, leisure, and wholesale segments for Hyatt’s European portfolio.

Previously, Nathwani was Further East senior sales & buyer executive at This is Beyond Ltd, where he built client relationships, delivered sales plans and represented the brand at global industry events. 

He began his travel industry career as a business management associate at Starwood Hotels & Resorts, supporting financial reporting, cross-functional operations, and process improvement initiatives across hotel operations.

“My career has given me a strong foundation in relationship-building, project management, and analytical thinking — all essential for a client-facing, partnership-driven role,” Nathwani said. 

“Joining First in Service at such an exciting moment for its London and European growth is a tremendous opportunity. I look forward to working closely with our advisors and supplier partners to strengthen collaboration, unlock new opportunities, and help ensure F1S continues to deliver exceptional experiences for clients across the region.”

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