Cunard gears up for 40% capacity growth with new appointment

Cunard is moving a Southampton-based executive to California to spearhead sales growth outside the UK.

The appointment of Matt Gleaves as vice president commercial for North America and Australasia comes as fleet capacity is raised by 40% with the introduction of new ship Queen Anne in early 2024.

Gleaves has worked for Carnival UK since 2010, most recently as vice president of international development and planning.

He has previously worked with Cunard’s North American and Australasia operations, but the move will see him dedicated to the role and be based at the line’s office in Santa Clarita, California.

Gleaves will be responsible for all aspects of sales, marketing, revenue management, customer service and guest relations for North America, Canada, Australia, Japan and across Asia, reporting to Carnival UK president Sture Myrmell.

Gleaves said: “North America has always been fundamental to Cunard’s success with the Australasian region becoming a staple to the brand and that importance will grow significantly.

“Our new ship, Queen Anne, arrives in early 2024, we are increasing our sailings in Alaska, Australia and Japan, and given the unique appeal of the brand we see further opportunities to grow the number of guests in these regions sailing across the fleet, including on the iconic transatlantic crossing on the only ocean liner in the world, Queen Mary 2.

“We have fantastic teams in place and are investing further in all aspects of the local operations. I am keen to partner with the local travel advisor community and collaborate on unlocking more of our iconic line’s potential.”

Gleaves previously held senior management positions with global companies IBM, Estée Lauder and VT group.