James Rodriguez has been appointed President and CEO of Atlas Ocean Voyages.
Bringing more than 20 years of experience in the cruise industry, Rodriguez (pictured) joined the company at a pivotal time of brand development and growth, it said.
With the successful launch of ’World Navigator’ and the upcoming November launch of the brand’s second vessel, ’World Traveller’, his experience in the areas of sales, marketing, operations, human resources and guest experience will be essential in propelling the brand forward in the areas of innovation, trade partnerships and guest acquisition, it was claimed.
“James’ entrepreneurial experience in helping build and market successful brands will be a key advantage as we continue to introduce our new brand to the North American market,” said Mário Ferreira, Chairman of Mystic Invest Holdings, Atlas Ocean Voyages’ parent company.
“James has an unwavering passion for the cruise industry and a reputation for being a champion of travel advisers. We are confident that, under James’ leadership, Atlas Ocean Voyages will be the best small luxury expeditions cruise line in short order.”
“This is an extraordinary opportunity, and I am deeply honoured to be joining the Atlas team,” Rodriguez said. “Only one year in service, Atlas is already an established cruise brand with elegantly designed expedition ships that sail to bucket list destinations and an exceptional staff and crew who deliver excellent service.
“Looking forward, we will continue to build upon that success by further enhancing the guest experience aboard our luxurious ships. In addition, we are committed to strengthening and expanding our relationships with the trade community, as we highly value our travel partners and are grateful for their support in recommending Atlas,” he said.
He began his cruise industry career with Crystal Cruises and subsequently joined Oceania Cruises in 2003 as a founding team member.
At Oceania, he served as Executive Vice President of Sales & Marketing and helped build the brand in the areas of omni-channel marketing, sales, corporate communications, loyalty programs, guest services, new product development, sustainability initiatives and corporate philanthropy.
