Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has appointed board director John W. Chidsey as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Harry Sommer steps down from both the CEO role and the board.
Chidsey has already been inside the room. He joined the NCLH board in February 2025, after an earlier stretch from 2013 to 2022.
“John has been a highly respected leader and strategic voice,” board chair Stella David says. “He is the right person to lead the company through its next phase of execution and performance improvement.”
She points to his focus on “operational rigor and accountability” and says the board is confident his leadership will “enhance execution, strengthen financial performance, reduce leverage and drive long-term shareholder value.”
David also acknowledged the work of outgoing CEO Harry Sommer.
“On behalf of the board, I thank Harry for his many years of dedication and service to the company,” David says.
Sommer steps away, having overseen the group through recovery and stabilisation post-pandemic.
Where has Chidsey worked?
Before ships, Chidsey ran some of the world’s most recognisable consumer brands.
He most recently spent five years as CEO of Subway, leading a multi-year effort to reposition the business and modernise operations across a vast franchised network. Before that, he was CEO of Burger King Holdings, having earlier served as President and CFO.
Earlier in his career, he held senior roles at Cendant Corporation, overseeing brands including Avis, Budget and Jackson Hewitt, and began in financial leadership positions at PepsiCo.
What are Chidsey’s plans for NCLH?
“I am honoured to take on the role of President and Chief Executive Officer at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings,” Chidsey says. “I look forward to building upon the solid foundation already in place, laid out by the Company’s award-winning brands, dedicated team and crew members, and loyal guests.”
“In my new position, my priority will be to partner with the Board and management team to sharpen execution, improve performance, and continue providing exceptional vacation experiences while delivering durable, long-term value creation.”
Trading stays within guidance
Alongside the leadership change, the company confirmed it expects fourth-quarter 2025 net yield to land around the midpoint of its previously disclosed range, with full-year results tracking in line with guidance issued in November 2025.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings operates Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, with 14 additional ships scheduled to join the fleet through 2036.
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