Global Ports Holding (GPH), the world’s largest cruise port operator, has announced significant developments in its Caribbean expansion project.
Following the recent signing of a 30-year concession agreement with the Government of Saint Lucia to operate and manage Saint Lucia Cruise Port, GPH has hired two local business executives to play pivotal roles in its local and Eastern Caribbean operations.
Lancelot Arnold (pictured, left) has been appointed director of the GPH Eastern Caribbean team and will also serve as the director of Saint Lucia Cruise Port, effective 1st December.
With a career spanning over two decades, he brings a wealth of experience in seaport management, maritime operations, mega structure creation, project development, and financial management to his new role.
Arnold will join the new port management company from the National Insurance Property Development and Management Company (NIPRO) where he has worked as CEO since 2019.
He will oversee the St. Lucia cruise port investment plan during the anticipated two-year construction period, lead the Saint Lucia cruise port team, and drive profitability. He will also spearhead operations of GPH-managed ports across the Eastern Caribbean.
Gasper George (pictured, right) has joined the GPH team as the Director of Operations and Product Development for GPH Eastern Caribbean and for Saint Lucia Cruise Port.
He recently served as Senior Manager of Business Development and Corporate Communications at the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA).
In addition to having worked in various roles within the private and public sectors, including the St. Lucia Trade Export Promotion Agency, George has served on local tourism and industry boards and committees. He has also participated as a member of the Marketing and Communications Committee for the Airport Council International – Latin America and the Caribbean.
He will play an instrumental role in enhancing the regional cruise tourism experience and supporting the company’s commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism. He assumed his new roles on 16th October, 2023.
Mike Maura, Jr, Regional Director of Global Ports Holding Americas, said. “We are thrilled to welcome Lance and Gasper to the team. Lance will bring strong leadership and managerial capabilities and significant industry experience that will set Saint Lucia Cruise Port and our Eastern Caribbean portfolio on a strategic path for success.
“Gasper will help establish the brand and build relationships with our customers and the community, strengthening our relationships with our cruise line partners and increasing passenger engagement.
“Their extensive local and international industry connections, along with their personal interest in community development, will also help ensure that this initiative benefits Saint Lucia and the Eastern Caribbean greatly. We look forward to supporting their success,” he said.
GPH said that it anticipated announcing more new hires in due course as it continues to build the Saint Lucia Cruise Port team and expand regionally.
