Royal Caribbean Promote From Within

Royal Caribbean Cruises has named two senior company executives it expects to chart the forthcoming course of the company’s largest brands, acknowledging the deep-seated bench of internal talent that has steered its long-term success.

Working his way up from an assistant purser’s position aboard the Nordic Prince, Michael Bayley will take the dual position of president and chief executive of Royal Caribbean International, while Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, whose career at the company began in the New England sales office, will assume the mirror position as president and chief executive of the premium market leader Celebrity Cruises.

Both appointments will begin immediately.

“This is a happy day for Michael and Lisa, and a proud day for all of us at the company,” expressed chairman and chief executive of Royal Caribbean Cruises, Richard Fain.

“To recognise these two incredibly talented people with these vital leadership positions after years of dedication, effort and innovative thinking is gratifying for everyone here.

“I am impressed with the skills they have demonstrated over the course of their careers, and I am excited to see where they take these powerful brands next.”

Bayley is taking over at Royal Caribbean after a successful term as Celebrity Cruises’ president and chief executive, a position that saw him build the company’s “modern luxury” position.

“Royal Caribbean International is a brand with an incredible history – and unlimited potential,” said Bayley.

“The ships, personified in the new Quantum class, are some of the best and most innovative in the world.

“And the crews that service Royal Caribbean International guests have a track record of delighting guests from every culture around the world. I look forward to an exciting future as we raise our game to an even higher level of performance.”

Beginning her company career as a district sales manager in New England, Lutoff-Perlo now moves to her new role from her status of executive vice president, operations at Royal Caribbean, where she played a fundamental role in the recent launch of the much anticipated Quantum of the Seas.

Lutoff-Perlo was also a key figure in the launch of the Voyager and Radiance classes, and the Solstice Class sailing under the Celebrity Cruises banner.

Images sourced via Flickr Creative Commons. Credits: Woody Hibbard