A former senior US government official is taking over the helm of the Cruise Lines International Association.
Kelly Craighead becomes president and CEO of the global cruise line body from January 1, taking over from Cindy D’Aoust, who announced her intention to leave the post in July.
Craighead has spent more than 15 years in the public and private sectors, recently serving as deputy assistant secretary for travel and tourism in the US Department of Commerce.
As the first executive director of the National Travel & Tourism Office, she led initiatives that generated more than $250 billion a year from International visitors to the US while also representing the country internationally.
Craighead remains active in global tourism efforts and is engaged with several international organisations focused on advancing travel and tourism priorities.
Clia global chairman and Carnival Corporation president and CEO Arnold Donald said: “I am extremely pleased that Kelly will be joining Clia to support the global cruise industry during this golden age of cruising.
“Her extensive experience in the hospitality and travel industries, combined with her leadership skills and passion for results, are second to none.
“This is an exciting time for our industry, steeped in opportunity and I look forward to working with Kelly in the years to come.”
Craighead will direct Clia’s global team to continue to unify, represent, advocate and promote the common interests of the organisation’s members and the global cruise industry.
Among her top priorities will be to continue to share the value and excitement of cruise travel.
She said: “Demand for cruising is exhibiting strong growth, making the cruise industry a critical partner to localities, regions and nations around the world.
“I am excited to be joining such a strong and well-respected organisation at an important time for the industry.
“I look forward to listening, learning, and better understanding the needs of our members and building on the strong foundation and success of the current team, in order to most effectively lead Clia in the years ahead.”