The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has announced key promotions and expansion of its sales team as part of its continued growth plans. These new promotions and appointments underscore the company’s continuous commitment to providing exceptional service, delivering extraordinary experiences, and expanding its global reach in the luxury travel industry.
Kristian C. Anderson has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Global Sales. Since joining the company in 2021, Kristian has consistently demonstrated his expertise and exemplary leadership, driving the growth of the company’s sales team. In his expanded role, Kristian will oversee all facets of the company’s sales operations, including global reservations, trade sales, meetings and incentives sales, air and hotel programs, and special services. His effective sales coaching and managerial abilities will play a vital role in further enhancing the performance of the sales department.
With over 30 years in the travel industry, Kristian brings a wealth of experience in leading global sales teams within the luxury hospitality sector. Prior to joining The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, he served as the Executive Vice President of Global Sales for luxury river cruise operator Uniworld River Cruises and held leadership positions at Silversea Cruises, Qatar Airways, and Aeromexico Airlines. During his time at Uniworld, Kristian served as the chair of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Trade Relations Committee.
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection also welcomes two additional team members to its expanding trade sales team, further strengthening relationships with travel partners across the globe and providing resources to help grow their businesses: based in Barcelona, Joan Brullet Gubern, Director, Trade Industry Sales – EMEA and based in Los Angeles, Stephanie Seghers-Narvaez, Manager, Strategic Accounts – Western USA & Canada. With these new appointments, the company furthers its dedication to fostering lasting partnerships.
Carolina Acero has been promoted to Vice President, Finance. Recognized for her outstanding managerial and strategic skills, Carolina has played a crucial role in building a strong and high-performing finance team over her five-year tenure with the company. In her new role, Carolina will continue to guide the organization by fostering a robust financial mindset and serving as a strategic business partner for various departments. The accounting and tax teams, along with financial planning and analysis, insurance, and treasury teams, will report to her, facilitating streamlined communication and comprehensive financial guidance across the organization. Carolina holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and has held previous roles at Royal Caribbean Group and various companies focused on the Latin American market.
Tobias King, the company’s leader in new build projects, has been promoted to Vice President, Newbuild. His dedication and expertise have been pivotal in the company's growth, particularly in building and leading the newbuild team at Chantiers de l’Atlantique for the company’s upcoming superyachts Ilma and Luminara, slated to sail in 2024 and 2025, respectively. Tobias' remarkable ability to develop positive relationships and conduct successful negotiations has solidified the foundation of the newbuild department, positioning the company for continued success in delivering extraordinary experiences to its guests. With a background in naval architecture and marine engineering, Tobias managed several projects for Celebrity Cruises and held engineering and consultancy positions with DNV prior to joining The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection.
“Kristian has consistently demonstrated his ability to drive revenue performance and provide exceptional leadership. We congratulate him on this well-deserved promotion and are confident that his expanded role will contribute to our continued success,” said Jim Murren, Executive Chairman and CEO of The Ritz- Carlton Yacht Collection. “I would also like to extend my congratulations to Carolina and Tobias on their elevated roles. Their expertise and dedication will be crucial to drive the company forward as we embark on an exciting phase of growth and expansion.”
“Kristian, Carolina, and Tobias exemplify exceptional leadership and dedication,” said Ernesto Fara, President and CFO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. “Their invaluable contributions to the company have been instrumental in driving our growth and success, and they will undoubtedly continue to lead the way with thoughtfulness and strategic vision.”
