After more than five years at Cruise Lines International Association, Kelly Craighead will step aside from her role as CLIA President and CEO. In a message to CLIA members and partners, CLIA Global Executive Chair Jason Liberty announced stated Kelly will depart the position at the end of the year.
“After leading CLIA during the most turbulent time in the industry’s history and helping to steward the industry to new heights since then, Kelly has decided that the time is right for her to seek out her next big challenge,” he remarked.
“While we will be sad to see her go, we’re excited to see what’s ahead for Kelly.
“It’s always enviable to leave organisations better than when you joined and when all signs are pointing up. Kelly has achieved both of these things during her time at CLIA.
“Her many contributions will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on our industry, and we should all be profoundly grateful for that.”
Liberty also flagged Craighead’s many achievements while at the helm of the world’s largest cruise line body.
“I know I speak for the entire industry when I say Kelly Craighead has worked tirelessly and overseen incredible accomplishments in her five-plus years at CLIA: navigating an unprecedented industry shutdown; aligning our ambitious sustainability initiatives to position cruise at the forefront of responsible tourism; and championing the unparalleled growth in our industry and record-breaking passenger numbers,” he said.
“All this while balancing the diverse needs of our valued stakeholders, members, and partners worldwide.”
According to Liberty, the association will commence the hunt for a new CLIA President and CEO immediately.
“As part of a thoughtful transition process, Kelly will remain in place through December,” he added.
In a statement, the outgoing CLIA President said, “From day one, it has been my enduring ambition to make CLIA a more impactful and high-achieving organisation that is both highly-regarded by its members and making a real difference on a global scale”.
“I am proud to say we have achieved both things.”
