A former Airbnb global head of hosting and Disney executive has been recruited as president of AmaWaterways.
Catherine Powell will join the river cruise line as president, working alongside co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst.
Karst will continue as co-owner and co-founder and take on the position of chief brand ambassador.
Powell, who joins on February 17, will report to co-founder and chief executive Rudi Schreiner, “ensuring a collaborative approach to leadership and maintaining continuity in the company’s strategic direction,” a statement said.
“This carefully planned expansion of the executive team demonstrates AmaWaterways’ commitment to long-term stability and continued excellence in the luxury river cruise industry.”
Powell “has been chosen to complement the existing leadership team and contribute to the company’s future success”.
She spent more than 15 years at The Walt Disney Company, delivering double-digit growth and leading transformative efforts focused on new revenue and cost opportunities. Most recently, she served as global head of hosting at Airbnb, overseeing and growing its global community of more than five million Hosts of both homes and experiences.
Schreiner said: “Catherine’s vision aligns perfectly with our ethos of exceptional guest experiences and innovation. Her leadership will be instrumental in propelling AmaWaterways to new heights.
“As we move into this new chapter of growth, we are confident that Catherine’s expertise and vision will be instrumental in exploring new opportunities within the luxury river cruise market, while staying true to our core values.”
Karst said: “I very much look forward to not only creating more awareness and forging relationships internationally, but to maintaining and strengthening our very important relationships with our travel trade (partners) who have always been at the heart of AmaWaterways.
“Together, we will continue building on the foundation of trust and excellence that AmaWaterways is known for, ensuring we deliver unforgettable experiences to our guests around the world.”
Powell, a former president of Disneyland Paris, added: “I am thrilled and honoured to join AmaWaterways as its new president. The company’s commitment to exceptional guest experiences, innovation, and sustainability aligns perfectly with my own values and vision for the future of travel.
“Having spent my career in entertainment and hospitality, I’m excited to bring my passion for creating unforgettable moments to the world of luxury river cruising.
“I look forward to working alongside the talented team at AmaWaterways to build upon their impressive legacy and chart new courses for growth and excellence in the industry.”