Former Celebrity Cruises sales chief Dondra Ritzenthaler has been named incoming chief executive of Azamara.
Ritzenthaler was formerly senior vice-president of sales, trade support and services for Celebrity before announcing her retirement in April. She will start in her new position in May next year, with Azamara chair Dan Hanrahan leading the business until that time.
Current president Carol Cabezas was not mentioned in a statement confirming the appointment. However, Travel Weekly US reported she will be leaving the company.
In addition to Ritzenthaler’s appointment, Azamara has also appointed Alain Ferzli as chief financial officer, effective immediately. Ferzli previously acted as chief financial officer for Virgin Voyages and held various financial roles for Royal Caribbean.
Ritzenthaler, who has 40 years’ industry experience including 20 years with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity and 20 years with American Airlines, said: ““Azamara provides a unique and exciting offering within the luxury cruise space, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead the company into its next chapter.
“I look forward to working with the talented team and their travel partners to better serve the customer base and grow the Azamara brand.”
Hanrahan added: “Our team has worked diligently to maintain a solid foundation for Azamara amid unique industry-wide challenges over the last several years.
“Dondra and Alain’s deep knowledge of and experience leading cruise lines will support the shift of our focus to expanding our business and realising Azamara’s full potential.”