Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has announced today that its Global Executive Committee has appointed Cindy D’Aoust as President and Chief Executive Officer effective immediately. D’Aoust joined CLIA in December 2014 and has served as CLIA’s Acting CEO and Executive Vice President of Membership and Operations. She will continue to oversee CLIA’s operations globally while working with the senior leadership team to propel the organization forward and work on behalf of all CLIA members.

D’Aoust brings more than two decades of experience in the hospitality and travel industries, including a leadership position at Meeting Professionals International, where she served as Chief Operating Officer, overseeing global operations, marketing and member services. She held other senior roles with Maxvantage and Maritz Travel.

“Cindy has proven to be an extremely valuable and knowledgeable member of our executive team. Her extensive experience in the hospitality and travel industries, combined with her leadership skills and passion for the cruise industry, made her the right person to guide our global industry association on an exciting journey forward.” said Adam M. Goldstein, Global CLIA Chairman and President & COO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

In the role of President and CEO, D’Aoust will direct CLIA’s global team to successfully unify, represent, advocate and promote the common interests of the organization’s members and the global cruise industry. Among her top priorities is the commitment to unite the industry and create a stronger voice, making cruise travel the best vacation choice for every traveler around the world.

“I am honored to take on the official role of President and CEO of CLIA, representing Cruise Lines, Travel Agencies and Agents, and Executive Partners across the globe” said D’Aoust. “CLIA is a strong and well-respected organization with an impressive global team. Now more than ever, it is important for the cruise industry to collaborate and create a stronger global voice. I look forward to building on the organization’s current success and delivering on our mission to be the unified global organization that helps our members succeed by advocating, educating and promoting for the common interests of the cruise community.