Celestyal appoints North America vice-president and managing director

Celestyal Cruises has appointed Brandon Townsley as vice-president and managing director for North America.

Townsley joins the line from Crystal Cruises where he was vice-president of sales and trade partnerships, and he has also worked for NCL, Ocean Voyages, Virgin Voyages and MSC Cruises.

He will be tasked with developing and executing the strategic business plan for North America, as well as building tour packages, leading trade training and accelerating the distribution channels that support Celestyal’s brand positioning, said the line.

Reporting into chief commercial officer Lee Haslett, he will also be charged with leading and mentoring the North American team and “releasing the full potential of the regional market”.

Townsley said: “Celestyal has a clear path and genuine ambition, and I am thrilled to accept the opportunity to be part of their mission.

“There is a clear mandate to grow and invest in the North American market, and I intend to leverage my experience and relationships to spearhead welcomed growth.”

Haslett added: “I am delighted to welcome Brandon to my leadership team and to the Celestyal family.

“I am confident that with his unique blend of cruise and customer experience, along with his strong business and leadership acumen, he will prove to be an invaluable asset to the team and realise the full potential of the North American market.”