From sports to finance, male dominance within a host of high profile industries has created global controversy over the past few months. One sector that has escaped censure is the luxury cruise market. The sector is fronted by a myriad of fiercely talented female CEOs, with Celebrity Cruise Line’s Lisa Lutoff-Perlo hailed as one of the most influential ladies in the business.
The Commonwealth Institute of South Florida (TCI) recently handed down the company President and CEO top honours at its 11th annual luncheon, thrown to celebrate the state’s top 50 women-led businesses.
“I’m thrilled, it’s quite an honour,” she said in response to TCI’s recognition. “It’s actually quite humbling.”
Recognising leading ladies
Lisa’s been leading the luxury brand since 2014, and has transformed Celebrity into one of the industry’s most coveted lines. Recognised for being the personification of an influential businesswoman, TCI applauded her as an “agent of change” who sets an example for all aspiring female leaders.
“For the past 11 years, we have made it our objective to understand how so many smart, committed women run their companies, overcome challenges, and celebrate success, and then pass that inspiration onto every woman in the room,” said TCI’s executive director, Laurie Kaye Davis. “This event celebrates the achievements of these women and focuses on how they are leading the charge in companies across the state. Our top honouree, Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, superbly exemplifies these qualities and we are thrilled to recognize her leadership.”
A female ‘tour de force’
So what’s put Lisa on her pedestal? Bold new advertising campaigns that challenge cruise industry stigmas, advocating for diversity by hiring the sector’s first American female cruise ship captain and debuting the ultra-luxurious ‘Solstice Class’ experience are just a few of her notable achievements.
“The cruise industry is still very male-dominated because it’s so heavily focused on operations,” she said. “With the ships we have out at sea, most of those jobs have always been held by men, but I really do see a big change in our industry.”
Drawing on responses sourced from more than 4,000 women-led businesses, TCI asked candidates to divulge their secrets to success, and how they leverage their unique attributes to advance professionally. Responses were then analysed, with the top 50 female led businesses and charities honoured in the final league.
Congratulations to the honourees, Lisa in particular!
Experience a Celebrity Cruise
Want to experience Lisa’s ultra-luxurious empire first hand? Head to Cruise 1st for incredible deals across the entire Celebrity Cruise Line fleet.
Alternatively, you can give our friendly sales team a quick call on 0808 2746 777.
Image via Flickr Creative Commons. Photo credits: JD Lasica
