Princess Cruises has appointed Matthew Rutherford as its new Vice President, Asia Pacific to oversee operations in Australia, Japan and regional Asia and strengthen the brand’s position across the APAC region as a key growth priority market.
Rutherford has been with parent company Carnival Corporation for more than a decade, most recently serving as P&O Australia Vice President of Revenue Management & Deployment.
Princess Cruises CCO Terry Thornton said: “Globally, the Asia Pacific region is a key priority market for Princess and is well positioned for growth. Matthew Rutherford’s appointment and the expansion of the team is a vote of confidence in both our people and the region we operate in.”
“His well-rounded expertise in revenue management, strategic planning and data-driven decision-making will be invaluable in driving our growth across the Asia Pacific region.
“We are looking forward to welcoming Matthew in his new role at Princess and positioning him and the team for success,” Thornton said.
Rutherford steps into his new role from mid-April 2025. As part of the transition, Senior Director Sales & Marketing Nick Ferguson’s role will expand to Asia Pacific.
Reporting to Rutherford, Ferguson will retain Sales & Marketing operations in Australia and support Japan and regional Asia teams to drive strategic planning and regional marketing.
Princess Cruises Government Relations Asia/China Paul Chung, Country Director Japan Satoru Horikawa and Country Manager Hong Kong Gee Chan will also report to Rutherford.
Rutherford said it was an exciting time to join Princess Cruises for its 60th anniversary and when Discovery Princess debuts in Australia in December 2025.
Sydney Harbour also recently hosted a historic meeting when Crown Princess and Diamond Princess docked together for the first time.
“I am delighted to join Princess Cruises – one of the world’s most iconic cruise lines. It’s a privilege to lead this remarkable brand across the Asia Pacific region and I look forward to working with the talented team and their travel partners,” he said.
Find out more at princess.com
