by Donald Wood
Last updated: 3:11 PM ET, Wed November 28, 2018
Officials from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) announced Wednesday its Global Executive Committee appointed Kelly Craighead as president and chief executive officer, effective January 1, 2019.
Craighead was named as the replacement for current president and CEO Cindy D'Aoust, who announced her intention to leave the position by the end of the year.
As the CLIA's new president and CEO, Craighead will direct the organization's global team to continue unifying, representing, advocating and promoting the common interests of the organization's members and the global cruise industry.
"I am extremely pleased that Kelly will be joining CLIA to support the global cruise industry during this golden age of cruising," CLIA Chairman Arnold Donald said. "Her extensive experience in the hospitality and travel industries, combined with her leadership skills and passion for results, are second to none. This is an exciting time for our industry, steeped in opportunity and I look forward to working with Kelly in the years to come."
Craighead will also be tasked with continuing the association's overall mission of sharing the tremendous value and excitement of cruise travel.
In her over 15 years in the industry, Craighead served as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism in the United States Department of Commerce where she advanced travel and tourism priorities within the Administration and with Congress.
In addition, she served as the first Executive Director of the National Travel & Tourism Office, as well as remaining active in global tourism efforts and engaging with several international organizations focused on advancing travel and tourism priorities.
"Demand for cruising is exhibiting strong growth, making the cruise industry a critical partner to localities, regions and nations around the world," Craighead said. "I am excited to be joining such a strong and well-respected organization at an important time for the industry. I look forward to listening, learning and better understanding the needs of our members and building on the strong foundation."
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