Ponant APAC has updated its leadership lineup with Deb Corbett stepping into the role of Chief Executive Officer and paving the way for other management changes, including Maxime Farrenq as new Chief Commercial Officer and David Marionneau appointed to the new position of Director of Maritime Operations.
Corbett will also be ably assisted by Ponant APAC Director of Sales Julie Rogers, whose remit now includes Japan and Hong Kong; Director of Marketing & Communications Charles Boutet; Director of Expedition & Destination Development Mick Fogg and Customer Engagement Director Helene Delgado.
After seven years with Ponant, most recently as APAC General Manager Sales & Marketing, and 30 years in the travel industry, Corbett is perfectly placed to take on the top role, reporting to Deputy CEO of Global Business Belinda Hindmarsh.
The Ponant APAC CEO position became available after Chris Hall resigned from the role he has held since February 2023 at the end of June.
The former APAC CEO was based in Ponant’s Marseille headquarters as a Special Advisor since October 2023. He will spend time in Europe and return to Australia in October 2024.
Hindmarsh paid tribute to Hall’s contribution to the luxury expedition cruise line.
“Chris has been instrumental in the transformation of the business as we focus on our growth across multiple markets with a priority given to technology, distribution and product development. I wish Chris all the best in his future endeavours,” she said.
As Ponant’s Global Senior Strategic Advisor and Honorary Chair, Sarina Bratton, who recently vacated her CLIA Australasia board role, will continue to advise the APAC team with a focus on developing the Paspaley Pearl by Ponant business and startup operations.
Find out more at au.ponant.com
