Arnold Donald to step down from Carnival Corporation board

Former Carnival Corporation president and chief executive Arnold Donald is to leave the cruise giant’s board of directors after more than two decades.

Donald, 67, joined the Carnival Corporation board in 2001 and Carnival PLC’s board in 2003, before taking on the role of president and chief executive in 2013.

He was succeeded by Josh Weinstein earlier this year but remained as vice-chair during a transition period.

He will depart Carnival on November 30 but will continue to provide “counsel and advice” on a consultancy basis.

He said: “I am extremely proud of all we have accomplished together these past nine years, including the critical roles played by the board, the senior leadership and every person in this amazing company who worked tirelessly with unmatched commitment, dedication and ingenuity to put our company, following the global pandemic’s industry impact, in a position to continue the sustained success we were enjoying.

“It is an honour and a privilege to serve this great company, and after 21 years of serving on the board, I feel the time is right for me to step aside, making room for others to enjoy the experience of contributing their leadership to our company while providing me increased flexibility to contribute outside of Carnival Corporation.”

Micky Arison, Carnival Corporation chair, said: “In working closely with Arnold for more than 20 years, I have the utmost respect for him as a person and as a professional.

“He leads by example, listens intently, acts with integrity and puts a strong emphasis on supporting everyone around him. Arnold connects deeply with people and has an extraordinary ability to communicate, which has made him one of the most important and influential voices in our industry.”

Randy Weisenburger, board member and lead independent director, added: “Arnold came in with a fresh point of view and an infectious, positive attitude, and he was able to build on Carnival Corporation’s long-term success.

“We have such great respect for Arnold as a colleague and a proven leader with a strong track record of success – and the company has seen impressive accomplishments during his time, expanding the cruise market and accelerating our growth trajectory as the largest cruise operator in the world.