The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection makes key appointments

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 07 April 2024 07 April 2024

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection introduces three key executives to its C-suite and senior leadership team, reaffirming the company’s commitment to continued growth and the delivery of luxury travel experiences.

Rachel Moosa assumes the role of Chief People Officer for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, drawing upon her extensive global Human Resources expertise to oversee the execution of the company's comprehensive people strategy. With over twenty-five years of Human Resources experience, encompassing business unit operational and leadership roles, Rachel's most notable achievement was serving as the Senior Vice President of Talent & Culture for Accor in the Middle East and Africa. In this role, she orchestrated the Talent Acquisition, Development, and Engagement strategy for over 200 hotels and 35,000 colleagues.

Throughout her career, Rachel has consistently driven employee engagement and business performance through practical strategies that fuel transformational change. As an HR Generalist, she has successfully led the M&A process for several integrations and possesses a significant background in HR strategy, learning & development, talent acquisition, and organizational change. Rachel holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Hospitality Management from the University of Central Lancashire and a Masters of Science in International Human Resource Management and Development from the University of Manchester. She is also a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD and holds SHRM's Senior Certified Professional Certificate.

Rachel's broad experience in Human Resources, particularly within the hospitality sector, positions her as an invaluable asset for the company's growth. Her focus on creating an exceptional workplace experience, from onboarding to offboarding, will ensure the seamless attraction, development, and retention of top talent.

In a strategic move to bolster its marketing endeavors, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection welcomes Gaby Aiguesvives as the company’s first Chief Marketing Officer. Gaby brings a wealth of marketing and strategic experience from her previous role at Saks/Hudson’s Bay Company, where she led marketing strategy, analytics, personalization, loyalty, and insights functions. Prior to this role, she spearheaded growth and performance marketing for all of Hudson Bay Company’s (HBC) brands, including Saks, OFF 5TH, Lord & Taylor, and The Bay. Gaby initially joined HBC as Director of Corporate Strategy in October 2014 and subsequently held various leadership roles.

Prior to joining HBC, Gaby served as a management consultant at The Cambridge Group, focusing on developing growth strategies for retail and consumer companies. Gaby's career has been marked by her leadership in customer loyalty, analytics, insights, personalization, and marketing analytics. She holds a B.S. in Finance & Economics from Penn State University and an MBA in Marketing and Entrepreneurship from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

In her new role as CMO, Gaby will oversee best-in-class marketing initiatives designed to elevate brand awareness and drive consideration among qualified target audiences, strategically positioning The Ritz- Carlton Yacht Collection as an unparalleled ultra-luxury travel experience. Gaby will spearhead efforts to deepen customer knowledge throughout all phases of the customer lifecycle to inspire, engage, and retain them effectively. With a background rooted in corporate strategy and customer insights, and a track record of success in scaling performance marketing for luxury brands, Gaby is well-positioned to lead the company’s marketing strategy and fuel growth.

To continuously elevate the luxury yachting experience through innovative technology solutions, Lakshmanan Duraisamy (Lak) takes on the role of Senior Vice President of Information Technology. Lak brings over 20 years of technology leadership experience, having played pivotal roles in driving digital transformations for Amazon, Carnival Corporation, Walt Disney World, and Open Text Corporation, among others. His contributions have consistently led to digital transformations, advanced information architecture and systems, streamlined technology operations, and enriched overall guest experiences through innovative technology solutions. With a Master of Science in Computer Science from Florida Atlantic University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and Engineering from PSG College of Technology, Lak has a proven track record in technology leadership.

In his new capacity, Lak will spearhead the IT strategy, applying his wealth of experience to further optimize the company’s technological efficiency, with a focus on enhancing guest experiences and operational efficiency to continue defining the future of luxury cruising. He brings a wealth of knowledge, a history of successful leadership, and a commitment to excellence, positioning the brand for continued success in the evolving landscape of luxury travel.
“We extend a warm welcome to Rachel, Gaby, and Lak, who bring impressive backgrounds and proven track records to our leadership team,” expressed Jim Murren, Executive Chairman and CEO of The Ritz- Carlton Yacht Collection. “Together, we are dedicated to understanding our guests, fostering an environment where our dedicated Ladies and Gentlemen thrive, and leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver exceptional experiences for our guests and world-class team.”

Ernesto Fara, President and CFO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, added, “The addition of Rachel, Gaby, and Lak marks an exciting chapter for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Their unique talents and expertise align seamlessly with our vision, propelling us further as a global leader in ultra-luxury travel.”

Third Hamburg Maritime Forum to be held at historic Altonaer Fischauktionshalle

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 04 April 2024 04 April 2024

The upcoming Hamburg Maritime Forum, now entering its 3rd edition, is slated to take place at the iconic Altonaer Fischauktionshalle. Anticipating a gathering of 500 participants, including shipowners, managers, port authorities, regulators, and technology firms, the forum is poised to serve as a pivotal platform for industry discussions, innovations, and collaborations.

The agenda will span a wide range of pressing topics, reflecting the industry's current priorities and future ambitions. At the forefront lies the urgent imperative of decarbonization and sustainability, driven by growing global concerns about environmental impact. With increasing pressure to adopt eco-friendly practices and reduce carbon emissions, participants will explore strategies such as alternative fuels and sustainable technologies to steer the industry toward a greener future.

Additionally, the forum will spotlight the significance of prioritizing the well-being of maritime crews, acknowledging their indispensable role in ensuring seamless vessel operations. Discussions will revolve around initiatives aimed at enhancing both physical and mental health, fostering a supportive environment within the maritime community.

Moreover, sessions will delve into the future of maritime fuels, reflecting the industry's pursuit of cleaner and more efficient energy sources. With advancements in technology and mounting regulatory demands, stakeholders will assess the viability of alternative fuels and innovative propulsion systems in achieving carbon neutrality.

Furthermore, the forum will examine the transformative potential of digitalization and artificial intelligence in maritime operations. From optimizing fleet management to enhancing safety standards, participants will explore how emerging technologies are reshaping the industry landscape.

Alongside these discussions, an exhibition will showcase the latest technologies and services from 44 companies. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with industry leaders, discover innovative solutions, and establish valuable connections.

As the forum draws to a close, participants will gather for a prestigious gala party, marking the end of two days filled with enriching discussions and networking opportunities. Set against the backdrop of Hamburg's rich maritime heritage, the Hamburg Maritime Forum underscores the industry's adaptability, innovation, and commitment to forging a sustainable and prosperous future.

Hamburg Maritime Forum
Dates: April 16 - 17, 2024
Location: Hamburg, Germany
Venue: Altonaer Fischauktionshalle
Organizer: IGGS Group
Website: https://hamburgmaritimeforum.com/

Photo credit: HHM/Peter Glaubitt

Aurora Expeditions to welcome third small ship, Douglas Mawson to fleet

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 03 April 2024 03 April 2024

Aurora Expeditions, the Australian-owned expedition travel company, has announced that it will soon welcome its third purpose-built small expedition ship, Douglas Mawson to its family of pioneering vessels. The ship is currently under construction in China and it will be chartered from the SunStone Ships.

Due to begin sailing in late 2025, Douglas Mawson’s inaugural season will also mark Aurora Expeditions’ return to East Antarctica for the first time in 15 years, with new itineraries to include a Mawson’s Antarctica voyage to East Antarctica in honor of the ship’s namesake, departing from Hobart.

Douglas Mawson will carry an average of 154 passengers and will be the newest Infinity Class vessel to enter the market, joining Aurora’s sister ships, also named after pioneers in their field, Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle. Like its sister ships, Douglas Mawson has been designed by Florida-based Tomas Tillberg Design.

The small ship will feature the latest and greatest revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW, designed for smoother and faster ocean crossings and world-leading fuel efficiency, and will offer Nordic interior design features with stylish and comfortable staterooms and suites across 11 different categories, most featuring private balconies. For the first time, Aurora will also offer several single-berth cabins to cater to the growing solo traveler segment.

Public spaces include two restaurants, two bars, an outdoor heated swimming pool, pool bar and Jacuzzis, a gym and sauna, relaxation and wellness areas, a library lounge, a citizen science center and lecture theater, and expansive observation decks offering panoramic views of wilderness and wildlife.

“We’re thrilled to be launching the newest and final Infinity Class vessel, which we have named in honor of pioneering Australian geologist and explorer, Sir Douglas Mawson,” said Michael Heath, chief executive officer, Aurora Expeditions. “We are equally delighted to be offering passengers new itineraries departing from Australia as part of the ship’s inaugural season, including an exploration of Mawson’s Antarctica, which will visit Mawson’s Huts at Cape Denison, Commonwealth Bay, and New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands.

“Aurora has pioneered expedition travel to the world’s most remote places for more than three decades, and we know that exploration is not just about what you see, but how you see it,” Heath added. “ That is why we are committed to delivering life-changing experiences with the newest, most advanced technology available, and with the most experienced and passionate team in the industry.”

“Aurora Expeditions takes great inspiration from the incredible legacy of Sir Douglas Mawson. Indeed, it was Mawson’s SY Aurora vessel that inspired our founder, Greg Mortimer, to name our company Aurora. Like its namesake, Douglas Mawson will be a ship that’s on the forefront of global ocean discovery,” said Hayley Peacock-Gower, chief market officer, Aurora Expeditions. “We also look forward to our partnership with the Mawson’s Huts Foundation – a custodian of Australia’s Antarctic heritage and advocate for Antarctic science education for children – and supporting the fantastic work they do to preserve the Mawson’s Huts complex and bring the stories and achievements of Sir Douglas Mawson and his Australasian Antarctic Expedition 1911-14 to life. We can’t wait to welcome Douglas Mawson to our fleet of small ships, and we look forward to announcing the full program of voyages for the new ship, which will offer passengers incredible expeditions in the polar regions, as well as some exciting new destinations.”

Like Aurora’s sister ships, Douglas Mawson is designed to be a comfortable base camp for adventure, with Zodiac access points, a changing room and mudroom preparing passengers for off-ship and on-shore activities, while a dedicated science center is the hub for a variety of participative and educational Citizen Science programs.

Aurora Expeditions plans to commence voyages on Douglas Mawson in December 2025, with the inaugural voyage and full program to be announced soon.

Artist's rendering of the dining room. The ship has been designed by Tomas Tillberg Design

Bar and lounge on Deck 5

Balcony cabin

Aurora Expeditions new leadership and appointments in North America

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

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Published: 31 March 2024 31 March 2024

Aurora Expeditions, the Australian expedition travel company has announced new appointments and developments within its North American sales team.

Kris Endreson has joined the company as its new Vice President of Sales, North America. Based in Dallas, Endreson brings a wealth of experience in senior roles within the expedition and cruising space, and a proven track record of driving sales growth and strong customer relationships. Officially assuming the role today, Endreson will be responsible for leading the company’s sales strategy across the region, driving revenue, and expanding its overall market presence, supported by her team of sales directors and business development managers.

To further bolster Aurora’s sales strategy in the market, the company has also appointed Bonnie Newman to a newly created role of Director of National and Key Accounts, following her success in her previous role of Sales Director, US West. This new role will be responsible for nurturing relationships with national retail agencies as well as strengthening and growing Aurora’s relationships with key wholesale accounts to drive revenue growth.

In addition, Danna Walker has been promoted to the new role of Business Development Manager, Canada, where she will work to expand Aurora’s brand presence in the Canadian market, forging partnerships, and driving growth initiatives with the Canadian trade.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kris Endreson to the team, as well as congratulate Bonnie and Danna on their new roles,” said David Tanguay, Global Head of Sales, Aurora Expeditions. “I am confident that their passion, dedication, and expertise will propel us to new heights and strengthen our position as a market leader in North America.”

Eric Andrews remains in his role as Sales Director, US Southeast, while the company is now also actively recruiting to fill the Sales Director roles for the Northeast and West.