Royal Caribbean International’s head of sales Steve Williams is leaving to join MSC Cruises.
Williams, who has been with Royal for more than 10 years, will take on the newly created role of director of sales for MSC’s UK and Irish operations.
He leaves Royal immediately and will be on gardening leave until he starts his new role in October. Williams’ appointment comes as MSC Cruises announces head of sales Janet Parton will leave the line after two years.
Parton will leave in August, but details of her next career move are yet to be revealed.
Williams will manage the line’s sales team and account managers. He will report into UK managing director Antonio Paradiso.
Speaking about the appointment, Paradiso said: “Steve is an excellent addition to our UK and Ireland team and will be leading our sales organisation through a period of significant growth. He brings a wealth of expertise with him and I am confident he will help us continue with the growth plans we have in place for the UK and Ireland.
“Janet has done a fantastic job in growing sales for MSC Cruises and leaves the brand well positioned for its next growth phase. I wish to thank Janet for her contribution to the business during her time with the company and for all the support she has given me since my move to the UK. I wish her all the best for the future.”
Commenting on his new role, Williams said: “I am incredibly proud to have worked for Royal Caribbean in the UK and Ireland for the past 10 years, which has seen the brand go from strength to strength. I am leaving one of the best teams in the business and wish Stuart (Leven, managing director) and his team every success.
“I am truly excited to join Antonio and the MSC Cruises team later this year and to continue to build on the great work that Janet and her team have done in the UK & Ireland as MSC look to substantially grow their own cruise business here.”