Norwegian president and CEO to exit, new boss named
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has announced some major organisational changes for the Norwegian Cruise Line brand.
These changes include the planned departure of Andy Stuart (pictured above), president and CEO of Norwegian, following the launch of Norwegian Encore, and the appointment of Harry Sommer, current president for international at NCLH, as Stuart’s successor.
Stuart will step down from his role on 31 December 2019 and remain with the company as senior advisor through 31 March 2020 to ensure a smooth transition.
Stuart joined Norwegian in 1988 and held several key executive positions during his tenure of more than three decades.
“I could only have dreamed about my journey at Norwegian when I joined the company in 1988 and am extremely fortunate to have witnessed firsthand the incredible evolution of this pioneering brand,” he said.
“I am honoured to have played a role in the leadership position Norwegian now holds in this incredible industry and continue to be proud of the commitment, dedication and passion of our team for delivering a best-in-class vacation experience.
“I have worked closely with Harry and am confident he is the right person to take the helm and continue the journey for Norwegian Cruise Line.”
Frank Del Rio, president and chief executive of NCLH, said: “Andy has accomplished everything possible in the cruise industry, including leading its most storied and innovative brand.
“He will leave on a high note after delivering the brand’s latest ship, Norwegian Encore, the last ship in the most successful ship class in the company’s history.
“We are extremely grateful for his leadership and contributions to Norwegian Cruise Line, our company and the cruise industry.”
Del Rio said Norwegian’s management and board of directors have worked closely on a comprehensive succession plan over the last several years.
“The board and I are confident that Harry is the right person to succeed Andy as president and CEO of the Norwegian Cruise Line brand, and look forward to him leveraging his breadth of knowledge and extensive experience in the industry and our company to take the brand to new heights.”
Commenting on his promotion, Sommer said: “Andy and I have worked closely together over the last several years, and I am humbled and honoured to follow in his footsteps and lead this renowned brand.
“I look forward to working with all of our incredible partners worldwide, building off the strong position the brand holds today and charting the strategy for the next phase of Norwegian’s journey.”
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
andy stuart harry sommer NCLH Norwegian Cruise Line HoldingsLatest News
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