Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the world’s largest cruise industry trade organisation, said it has announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Adam M. Goldstein, vice chairman, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., as Global Chair, effective January 1, 2019. Goldstein succeeds Arnold Donald, President and CEO, Carnival Corporation & plc. who served as CLIA Global Chairman since January 2017.

“I’m honoured to take on this role for the second time and look forward to building on the great work that Arnold has accomplished during his time as Chair,” said Goldstein in a statement. “As the cruise industry continues to grow globally, it’s exceptionally important that we work together to ensure a positive experience for our guests and for the destinations we visit. I’m excited to collaborate with all of our constituencies to pursue this vision.”

Goldstein previously served as CLIA Global Chair in 2015 and 2016 and has remained on the CLIA Global Executive Committee for the past two years. In addition to his more than 30-year tenure with RCL, he most recently served as the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association Charmain, CLIA’s sister association.

“Adam is a proven leader and his experience is invaluable to the cruise industry. I welcome the opportunity to work alongside him as CLIA continues to advance the common interests of our community,” said Kelly Craighead, CLIA’s president & CEO. “As Adam returns as Chair, CLIA thanks Arnold Donald for his outstanding leadership over the past two years. Arnold’s focus on results empowered CLIA to be an ever-stronger organisation focused on adding value to our members and the industry. We look forward to his continued leadership on the Global Executive Committee.”