Top cruise lines are making waves with high-profile leadership changes, reshaping their executive teams and positioning themselves for future growth and innovation.
Key Promotions at River Cruise Giant AmaWaterways
Luxury river cruise line AmaWaterways has promoted Alex Pinelo to Chief Sales Officer and Michal Maguire to Chief Marketing Officer. These strategic appointments are effective immediately.
“I am delighted for Alex and Michal. As we continue to strengthen our presence in our existing markets, and expand into exciting new ones, such as Colombia, their leadership will be key to growing and nurturing our relationships with travel partners and guests worldwide,” said Catherine Powell, President of AmaWaterways, in a press statement. “I look forward to working closely with them and the rest of the AmaWaterways team to push the boundaries of excellence in the luxury river cruise industry.”
Pinelo and Maguire bring a wealth of experience to their new roles, each having demonstrated exceptional skills in their respective fields. Pinelo, a 30-year cruise industry veteran, joined AmaWaterways in 2016 and has since become renowned for his ability to forge strong relationships with travel advisors and drive revenue growth. His industry influence was further recognized in Nov. 2024 with his appointment to the Travel Institute Board of Directors. Maguire, who came aboard in 2019, quickly rose through the ranks to become Vice President of Marketing in 2023. With over two decades of experience in digital marketing and integrated communications, she has played a crucial role in establishing AmaWaterways as a frontrunner in luxury river cruising.
Pinelo will spearhead the company’s global sales strategies in their new positions and continue to nurture its extensive network of travel advisors. Maguire will lead worldwide marketing initiatives, focusing on enhancing brand awareness, supporting growth, and assisting travel advisors in sharing AmaWaterways’ exceptional river cruise experiences with both loyal and potential guests.
For more information, visit amawaterways.com.
Changes at Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages’ North American sales chief, John Diorio, has left the company after a 6-year tenure. Diorio’s journey with the innovative cruise line began as director of sales for the U.S. and western Canada, culminating in his promotion to vice president of sales for North America in 2022.
Seatrade Cruise News first reported Diorio’s exit, which Virgin Voyages subsequently confirmed. In the interim, the company’s chief marketing officer, Nathan Rosenberg, will step in to oversee sales operations while the search for Diorio’s successor is underway.
Diorio’s departure marks a significant shift in Virgin Voyages’ leadership structure, particularly as the relatively new cruise line continues establishing its presence in the competitive North American market.
For more information, visit virginvoyages.com.
