by Donald Wood
Last updated: 12:10 PM ET, Fri May 5, 2023
Cunard announced Katie McAlister has been named the company’s
next president.
McAlister is scheduled to join the British cruise line in
August after a 20-year career with TUI, where she remains chief marketing
officer for the United Kingdom and Ireland.
“We are delighted to have someone of Katie's caliber join
Cunard at this vital time of expansion,” Carnival UK president Sture Myrmell
said.
“Her commercial and operational experience as well as
digital transformation expertise and strategic oversight will build on the
current team's exceptional work to ensure that Cunard's brand and growth
opportunities are maximized as we look forward to the introduction of Queen
Anne next year,” Myrmell continued.
With TUI, McAlister held roles across most parts of the organization,
including overseas delivery, commercial, digital and marketing.
Most recently as chief marketing officer, McAlister is a
member of the UK & Ireland board and leads sales channels and marketing in
the UK & Ireland for TUI, First Choice and Marella Cruises, alongside a
global responsibility for the TUI brand and digital marketing.
“This was an unrivalled opportunity to join an iconic travel
company at a key point in its history,” McAlister said. “I am so looking
forward to joining the team as it widens its appeal and expands its guest base
whilst retaining its renowned luxury, signature touches.”
Earlier this week, Cunard’s Queen
Anne was floated at the Fincantieri Marghera shipyard in Venice,
representing the completion of its first construction phase.
“The 249th ship to sail under the Cunard flag, Queen Anne
officially touched water for the first time exactly 365 days before she will
set sail on her maiden voyage to Lisbon on May 3, 2024,” Cunard said.
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