ROL Cruise names Sarah Wikevand as commercial chief

Former ROL Cruise managing director Sarah Wikevand has been named chief commercial officer in the first strategic appointment made by Rosie Cairns since she became chief executive.

The move follows the independent cruise retailer’s shift to employee ownership in November, which saw staff become 51% shareholders in the business.

The switch saw Cairns step up from being joint managing director, working alongside Wikevand.

In her new role, Wikevand, who has been with the company for almost 20 years, takes full responsibility for the development and execution of ROL Cruise’s commercial strategy, ensuring alignment with the company’s overarching business objectives as it marks its 30th anniversary this year.

Cairns said: “Appointing Sarah as chief commercial officer was an easy decision and a strategic move for the business, as we continue to evolve under our new employee-owned structure. 

"Sarah and I have worked closely together for many years, and her deep understanding of the business, combined with her commercial insight makes her perfectly placed to lead this area.

“Her new role will strengthen the alignment across our leadership team and support the delivery of our long-term business goals. I know the team will join me in welcoming this next step in Sarah’s journey with ROL.”