by Donald Wood
Last updated: 11:00 AM ET, Mon January 8, 2024
WHY IT RATES: The major
cruise is revamping its marketing division with a respected veteran.—Donald
Wood, Breaking News Editor.
Princess Cruises today announced that Jim Berra – an
accomplished cruise industry and hospitality veteran with nearly three decades
of brand, marketing, and commerce experience – has joined the organization as
chief marketing officer, reporting directly to Princess Cruises president John
Padgett.
As CMO, Jim will lead all global marketing facets including
integrated marketing strategy formulation, creative development and brand
promotion across all channels and geographies to further optimize Princess'
global marketplace position.
Berra joins a leadership team with extensive commercial and
communications experience including highly respected industry veterans Terry
Thornton, Chief Commercial Officer; Vicki Johnson, Sr. Vice President of
Communications, and Carmen Roig, Vice President of Sales.
"Jim's demonstrated track record of success with
outstanding hospitality brands make him a perfect addition to the Princess
team," Padgett said. "The Princess brand is truly special, and Jim
will ensure 'The Love Boat' extends its position as an iconic brand and a
global destination leader."
Berra comes to Princess from Invited (formerly ClubCorp),
the largest owner of private membership clubs in the country, where he served
as Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer. Prior to Invited, Berra spent six
years at Royal Caribbean International as senior vice president and chief
marketing officer, overseeing the company's advertising programs, marketing
communications, social media, e-commerce, and customer marketing.
"Princess has a rich history of creating unforgettable
moments at sea, and I am excited to steer the marketing efforts for the iconic
Love Boat brand to even greater heights," Berra said. "Together, we
will continue to inspire travelers to embark on journeys filled with love,
adventure, and cherished memories."
Before Royal Caribbean, Berra spent seven years at Carnival
Cruise Line as its Chief Marketing Officer. Previously he also held multiple
positions with Starwood Hotels & Resorts including SVP of Customer
Marketing and Strategic Alliances.
A resident of Miami Beach, Fla., Berra holds bachelor's
degrees in economics and philosophy from Northwestern University.
SOURCE: Princess Cruises
press release.
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