Ben Bouldin, Royal Caribbean Cruises’ vice-president for Europe, Middle East and Africa, is the new chair for cruise body Clia UK and Ireland.
He will begin his two-year tenure later this month, working with Clia to support its membership of almost 4,000 travel agencies and more than 50 cruise lines as cruising resumes in the UK and beyond.
Bouldin will take over from Tony Roberts, Princess Cruises’ UK and Europe vice-president, who has been in the post for three years.
Andy Harmer, Clia’s UK and Ireland managing director, said: “[Bouldin’s] expertise and influence will ensure the cruise industry continues to lead the way as opportunities to travel further open up.
“We want to thank Tony for his incredible hard work and strategic direction during the past three years, which has helped steer Clia and the wider industry through the most challenging period in its history.”
Bouldin added: “Over the last year, the industry has experienced unprecedented challenges, but by innovating and adapting, we have shown how strong we are.
“It is now more important than ever that we continue to drive the industry forward as we begin cruising again in the UK and globally.”
Roberts commented: “It has been a pleasure to work with the Clia executive eommittee, as well as the various working groups and our media and travel agent partners, as we all work together to get more people to choose cruise.
“The past several months have been extremely challenging for our industry, and it has been incredible to see how Clia, supported by experts from across our sector, have pulled together to navigate through this crisis. I am confident that with Ben as the new chair, Clia will go from strength to strength.”
Bouldin has worked for Royal Caribbean Cruises’ for the past seven years. He started as UK and Ireland sales director before being appointed associate vice president and managing director for the UK and Ireland. He was promoted to EMEA vice-president EMEA in January 2020.
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