Celestyal Cruises has recently expanded its North American trade team, adding four new members and bringing the team’s total strength to 11, as detailed in a recent press release. The expansion is part of the cruise line’s effort to restructure its sales and marketing department in North America, aiming to enhance services provided to its travel advisor partners. The newly appointed team members include Elena Rodriquez as the Director of Business Development, Scott Moore as the Director of Key Accounts and Partnerships, Taylor Hendwood as Business Development Manager for the Southeast, and Lauren Barreras as Trade Marketing Manager.
Elena Rodriquez joins Celestyal from Princess Cruises, where she managed a portfolio of 45 national accounts. Scott Moore brings his experience from American Queen Voyages, where he handled host accounts and field agencies in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. Taylor Hendwood also transitions from American Queen Voyages, with prior roles at Princess Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and American Express. These team members will be reporting to Brandon Townsley, Vice President and Managing Director for North America. Townsley expressed enthusiasm for the new additions, highlighting their extensive experience in the retail cruise industry and their established relationships with travel sellers across North America.
Lauren Barreras, the new Trade Marketing Manager, brings eight years of experience in global trade marketing and sales, most recently from Oceania Cruises. She will be reporting to Anna Gregori, VP of Brand, Marketing, Communications, and Customer Journey. Gregori welcomed Barreras, noting her drive, experience, and passion for cruising as key attributes that will strengthen the team. The restructuring also includes promotions within the existing team. Cyndi Berardi, previously a Trade Sales Support Executive, has been promoted to Manager of Trade Support and Operations. Sandra Jakovac, also formerly a Trade Sales Support Executive, now takes on the role of Manager of Group Sales and Administration.
Stephanie McDonald, who was the Business Development Manager for Canada, has been promoted to Manager of Partner Training and Development. Townsley remarked that these new roles and promotions are in response to feedback from trade partners, reflecting the company’s commitment to this vital segment of their business. With a refreshed fleet, new itineraries, programs, and an expanded North American team, Celestyal is poised for growth and anticipates an exciting year ahead in the market.