Colchester, Essex: ROL Cruise is celebrating after Cruise Consultant Jake Nickels was selected for TTG Media’s prestigious 30 Under 30 cohort for 2026. Recognising the travel industry’s brightest emerging talent, the programme brings together 30 professionals from across the UK who have demonstrated exceptional potential and are committed to shaping the industry's future.
Jake, who joined ROL Cruise in 2021 after beginning his career with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines was nominated by ROL Cruise Chief Commercial Officer, Sarah Wikevand. The selection process included a written nomination and a one-minute video in which Jake explained why he believed he would be a valuable addition to the cohort. Throughout his time at ROL Cruise, Jake has established himself as one of the company’s leading sales consultants, consistently delivering exceptional service while becoming a trusted voice for both customers and co-owners.
Unlike many participants, whose roles span marketing, commercial, product and operations, Jake brings a frontline sales perspective to the programme. Speaking to customers every day, he offers firsthand insight into the questions, priorities, and booking decisions shaping today’s cruise market, giving him a unique viewpoint that will contribute to discussions throughout the year.
Daniel Pearce, CEO of TTG Media, said: “Our judging panel felt that Jake’s nomination for this year’s TTG 30 Under 30 leapt off the page. As someone who’s already made rapid progression in their career, they felt confident in picking him out as a future leader in travel and can’t wait to see how he continues to develop his career with the help of the initiative.”
Wikevand added: “Jake is an exceptional ambassador for both ROL Cruise and the wider cruise industry. His passion for cruising, commitment to delivering outstanding customer service and willingness to support those around him make him thoroughly deserving of this recognition. We’re incredibly proud to see him selected for TTG’s 30 Under 30 cohort and can’t wait to see the opportunities this brings over the coming year.”
Jake attended his first TTG 30 Under 30 event on the 15th of July, where he met the rest of the 2026 cohort and began what promises to be an exciting year of networking, learning and professional development alongside some of the travel industry’s brightest rising stars.
Jake: “It was surreal being in a room with that many talented young people, all of them wanting to make their mark on the industry. Being counted among them means a lot. I've been in this industry since I was 18 and I want to go a long way in it, so having TTG recognise the work is a big moment for me.”
Everyone at ROL Cruise is incredibly proud of Jake’s achievement and looks forward to following his journey as part of the TTG 30 Under 30 cohort over the coming year.
