John W. Chidsey, new President and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (Photo Credit: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings)
Norwegian
Cruise Line Holdings, Ltd. (NCLH), has announced the appointment of John W.
Chidsey as President and Chief Executive Officer.
Effective immediately, Chidsey succeeds Harry Sommer who is
stepping down as President and CEO and Director of NCLH.
Chidsey served as Chief Executive Officer of Subway
Restaurants for five years, leading a multi-year effort to reposition
the brand, modernize operations, and strengthen the company’s long-term
growth trajectory. Chidsey was appointed to the NCLH Board of Directors in
February 2025, a position he previously held from 2013 to 2022.
His previous experiences include serving as CEO of Burger
King Holdings, Inc. and leadership roles at Cendant Corporation, overseeing
brands such as Avis Rent A Car, Budget Rent A Car Systems, PHH, and Wright
Express, and the Financial Services Division, which included Jackson Hewitt. Chidsey
began his career in senior financial leadership roles at PepsiCo. And holds an
MBA in Finance and Accounting and a J.D. from Emory University, as well as a
B.A. from Davidson College.
“During his tenure on the Board of Norwegian Cruise Line
Holdings, John has been a highly respected leader and strategic voice. He is
the right person to lead the Company through its next phase of execution and
performance improvement,” said Stella David, chairperson of the Board in a statement.
She added, “John has demonstrated his ability to lead
businesses through meaningful transformation with a focus on operational rigor
and accountability. We are excited for John to assume the role of President and
Chief Executive Officer and are confident his leadership will enhance
execution, strengthen financial performance, reduce leverage and drive
long-term shareholder value. On behalf of the Board, I thank Harry for his many
years of dedication and service to the Company.”
Regarding the appointment, Chidsey said, “I am honored to
take on the role of President and Chief Executive Officer at Norwegian Cruise
Line Holdings. I look forward to building upon the solid foundation already in
place, laid out by the Company’s award-winning brands, dedicated team and crew
members, and loyal guests. In my new position, my priority will be to partner
with the Board and management team to sharpen execution, improve performance,
and continue providing exceptional vacation experiences while delivering
durable, long-term value creation.”
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