Accomplished cruising and maritime leader Bud Darr returns to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) as its new Global President and CEO, effective 3 February 2025.
He succeeds Kelly Craighead, who has helmed the organisation since 2019 and announced her plans to leave in September 2024.
Darr was CLIA’s Senior Vice President of Technical & Regulatory Affairs from 2010 to 2017 and rejoins the organisation from MSC Group where he served as Executive Vice President, Maritime Policy & Government Affairs for more than seven years.
He has also held positions within the U.S. Coast Guard, including Deputy Chief of Maritime & International Law and has served in the U.S. Navy, Merchant Marine, and Coast Guard.
In his new role, Darr will lead the organisation’s global strategy as the cruise sector builds on a strong and responsible growth trajectory in support of its 2050 sustainability targets.
A highly respected industry figure, Darr brings his maritime experience and global relationships across cruising and related trade, equipment, ports, shipbuilders and service providers.
CLIA Chair Jason Liberty said: “Bud’s proven leadership and dedication to advancing the cruise industry’s policies and environmental leadership practices make him the ideal candidate to lead us into a new era of growth and innovation.”
“His extensive background and understanding of the maritime industry will be invaluable assets as we set even higher benchmarks for success.”
Darr said: “I am thrilled to be returning to CLIA. With the dynamic changes and opportunities ahead, this industry is poised to set new pathways and raise the bar for innovation and sustainability.”
Find out more at cruising.org
