By
Rebecca Gibson |
Alan Buckelew, COO of Carnival Corporation & plc, is to expand his leadership role by relocating to China to oversee the company’s growing operations in the country.
In his expanded role, Buckelew will lead all of the company’s initiatives in China, while also continuing to provide oversight of all maritime and port operations around the world and a number of related functions as part of his COO role.
“As the world’s largest cruise company with a portfolio of nine industry-leading global cruise lines, we are the clear market leader in China and very well positioned to continue working with officials in China to help the country meet its goal of becoming one of the most important cruise markets in the world,” said Arnold Donald, CEO of Carnival Corporation. “Today’s announcement underscores our deep commitment to China as a market of great strategic importance for our company. Alan is one of the most respected leaders in the industry and having him on the ground in China will add great strength to our operation and growth opportunities in China.”
This year, Carnival Corporation’s total capacity in China increased by 66%, after Princess Cruises – a second Carnival Corporation brand – began homeporting Sapphire Princess in Shanghai in summer 2014.
In 2015, Carnival Corporation will become the first global cruise company with four ships based in China, which is widely considered as one of the world’s fastest-growing cruise markets. The company’s brand Costa Cruises is to deploy Costa Serena year-round in Shanghai, China, from April, where she will join her sister ships Costa Victoria and Costa Atlantica. The move will increase Costa’s overall capacity in Asia by 74%, while Carnival Corporation’s total capacity is expected to rise 140% over a two-year period.
“We are excited about our cruise ships currently serving the Chinese market and the vast potential to grow our business in China in the months and years to come,” Buckelew said. “Our team in China is dedicated and passionate about delivering a unique experience designed to exceed the expectations of every guest who boards one of our ships. As we execute our strategy to accelerate growth in China, we have the benefit of eight years of experience in China to not only help guide our expansion, but also find unique ways to delight our guests with the joy of cruising.”