Cindy D’Aoust has been named president and chief executive of global cruise industry trade body, the Cruise Lines International Association (Clia).
She has been acting chief executive and executive vice president of membership and operations since December 2014.
She will continue to oversee Clia’s operations globally while working with the senior leadership team to move the organisation forward and work on behalf of members.
D’Aoust has more than two decades of experience in the hospitality and travel industries, including chief operating officer of Meeting Professionals International in the US. She held other senior roles with Maxvantage and Maritz Travel.
She aims to unite the industry and create a stronger voice, making cruise travel the best holiday choice for travellers around the world.
D’Aoust said: “Clia is a strong and well-respected organisation with an impressive global team. Now more than ever, it is important for the cruise industry to collaborate and create a stronger global voice.
“I look forward to building on the organisation’s current success and delivering on our mission to be the unified global organisation that helps our members succeed by advocating, educating and promoting for the common interests of the cruise community.”
Clia global chairman and Royal Caribbean Cruises president and chief operating officer, Adam Goldstein, said: “Cindy has proven to be an extremely valuable and knowledgeable member of our executive team.
“Her extensive experience in the hospitality and travel industries, combined with her leadership skills and passion for the cruise industry, made her the right person to guide our global industry association on an exciting journey forward.”