“Happy to be back”: Ian Elliott returns to TravelOnly as SVP, commercial & engagement

TravelOnly is “buzzing with excitement” as it welcomes back “industry powerhouse” Ian Elliott to the role of senior vice president, commercial and engagement.

Elliott previously served as vice-president of sales and marketing at TravelOnly from 2015 to 2022, after which he joined Ensemble, becoming VP of partner relations. 

His return to the host agency space marks a new chapter for TravelOnly as the company continues to elevate its travel advisor community and strengthen its position as an innovative network.

“It feels like I’m returning home,” Elliott told PAX in an exclusive interview Friday afternoon.

In his new role, Elliott will focus on driving TravelOnly’s growth by securing new industry partnerships, increasing travel advisor sales through training and lead generation strategies, and advancing the host agency’s program.

His return brings a renewed sense of energy and a deep understanding of TravelOnly’s culture, advisors, and partners.

“Like a homecoming”

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have Ian back with us,” said Gregory Luciani, president and CEO of TravelOnly, in a statement. “His passion, creativity, and commitment to our advisors are unmatched. Ian has always understood what makes TravelOnly special, and his return injects a fresh wave of momentum into everything we’re building.”

The excitement is shared across the executive team, including Shannon Smith, senior vice president of sales, marketing and operations, who expressed her enthusiasm about reuniting with Elliott. 

“Working with Ian again feels like a homecoming,” said Smith. “His energy is contagious, his ideas are bold, and his dedication to our advisors is inspiring. I can’t wait to collaborate and push the boundaries of what TravelOnly can achieve.”

Elliott echoed the enthusiasm.   

“TravelOnly has always been a place where innovation and heart come together. I am thankful to our incredible consortia, Ensemble, for three amazing years, but it’s time to come home to my TravelOnly family! I’m thrilled to be back with this incredible team and to help fuel the next chapter of growth for our advisors and partners,” he said.

Speaking with PAX, Elliott highlighted TravelOnly’s potential, emphasizing the company’s investment in AI tools and technology.

“There are so many opportunities,” he said.

Elliott also noted that Ensemble, of which TravelOnly is a member, fully supported his decision to depart and elevate one of its highly-regarded Canadian members.

“I definitely feel like I made my mark at Ensemble,” Elliott said. “We developed great relationships together. It’s hard to leave, but they have a great team in place. It’s the right time to make a move.”

“It’s bittersweet,” he said, but returning to TravelOnly also offers personal benefits.

Elliott became a father last year, and his new role will allow him to spend more time at home with his daughter, Lillian, who turns one this March.

“It’s become a busy life,” he said. “But I’m excited to focus on my young family and help my other family [TravelOnly].”

“I’m super happy to be back.”

Ian Elliott can now be reached at ielliott@travelonly.com. 

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