Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has appointed Michelle Lardizabal, Chief Sales Officer of Azamara Cruises, and Joshua Harrell, Chief Revenue Officer of WorldVia Travel Network, as co-chairs of the CLIA Trade Relations Committee (TRC) for the 2026–2027 term.
“Michelle and Joshua are widely respected leaders with deep experience supporting the travel agency distribution channel,” said Charles Sylvia, ECC, CLIA’s Vice President, Industry and Trade Relations, in a media statement. “Their insight, leadership and commitment make them exceptionally well-suited to guide the TRC in elevating collaboration across cruise brands and the advisor network.”
Trade Relations Committee Expands Industry Influence
The TRC serves as a strategic advisory body representing both cruise line executives and travel trade leaders. The group works to advance shared priorities across CLIA’s membership, with a particular emphasis on enhancing advisor engagement, refining trade-facing programs and strengthening communication across the cruise distribution channel.
Lardizabal and Harrell will serve concurrent 24-month terms, with one co-chair representing the cruise line sector and the other representing the travel trade. In their roles, they will help guide the committee’s work in advising CLIA on key initiatives impacting travel advisors, including professional development, member engagement and evolving industry challenges.
“I am thrilled to step into the role of co-chair of CLIA’s Trade Relations Committee. Travel advisors are the heart of our industry. They inspire travelers, fuel demand and help shape the future of cruising through their expertise and passion,” said Lardizabal.
“I am honored to serve as co-chair of CLIA’s Trade Relations Committee alongside the incomparable Michelle Lardizabal,” shared Harrell. “CLIA’s leadership and education keep travel advisors connected to the cruise industry, providing them with the tools to deliver unforgettable cruise experiences for their clients.”
The TRC convenes throughout the year via virtual meetings and during in-person sessions, including at Cruise360’s Premier Summit.
Cruise360, CLIA’s flagship professional development event, will take place April 21–26, 2026, in Fort Lauderdale, bringing together travel advisors, cruise line executives, ports, destinations and industry partners. Registration is now open.
For more information, visit events.cruising.org.
