Cruise Lines International Association UK & Ireland has named Stuart Leven as its new Chairman.
Leven is currently Vice President, Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and Managing Director of RCL Cruises Ltd. and will be taking over the role from UK managing director of Holland America Line and Seabourn, Lynn Narraway, who has served as chair for two years since 2015.
Leven is welcomed into the role as CLIA chairman where he will serve until May 2018. Having joined Royal Caribbean in 2013, Leven’s role currently sees him overseeing Royal Caribbean International in the UK & Ireland and all three brands (Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises) in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. His appointment comes at a time when the industry has seen its best-ever annual total passenger numbers and continued investment in both ocean and river vessels.
On taking up his position as CLIA chairman Leven said: “I am delighted to take this opportunity as the industry looks to further invest, innovate and expand to ride the growing wave of interest in cruise holidays. Working with CLIA, we want to educate agents and holidaymakers alike on the breadth of choice available from cruise holidays – with the variety of brands, ships, destinations and experiences available, there truly is a cruise for everyone.”
Outgoing chair, Lynn Narraway, commented: “During my time as chair we have seen remarkable growth in the number of people choosing to cruise. I am confident that Stuart will bring new insights and experience to the role to ensure even greater engagement in the coming years. I look forward to continuing to work closely with the Andy, Stuart and the wider CLIA team as a member of the executive committee.”
Andy Harmer, VP Operations and Director of CLIA UK & Ireland thanked the outgoing chair for her “continued support and contribution to the success of CLIA.” Commenting, Harmer said: “It has been a pleasure to work so closely with someone who has the drive and passion to ensure that the message of cruising is front of mind. We now welcome Stuart to the role and with his experience and expertise, look forward to ensuring that cruise lines, agents and partners work together to support the progression of CLIA and the industry.”
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