Lisa Lutoff-Perlo to stand down as Celebrity Cruises chief
Tom ParryCelebrity Cruises chief Lisa Lutoff-Perlo is to stand down as the line’s president next month and transition into a new role within parent Royal Caribbean Group.
Lutoff-Perlo, who began her career with Royal Group in 1985 and became the first woman to lead one of its brands in 2014, will become the group’s vice-chair of external affairs from 1 May.
In her new role, Lutoff-Perlo will continue reporting to Royal Group president and chief executive Jason Liberty.
Laura Hodges-Bethge, currently executive vice-president of shared services operations, will become the new brand president of Celebrity Cruises.
The announcement follows news of another impending senior departure for Celebrity to adapt to, with Jo Rzymowska, its vice-president and managing director EMEA, due to step down in June.
Under Lutoff-Perlo’s leadership, Celebrity has welcomed four new ships, including the launch of its Edge-class series, while she has been celebrated for championing diversity and driving an increase in women choosing maritime careers.
“It has always been difficult for me to imagine leaving the incredible Celebrity brand, but the time is right for me to start an exciting new chapter and turn the helm over to a new leader,” she said.
“It has been my great honour to lead this brand and work alongside the phenomenal Celebrity shoreside team and crew. Together, our accomplishments have been extraordinary. I’m excited to now work closely with Jason on broader initiatives as we sail toward an even brighter future.”
“Lisa has been instrumental in transforming the Celebrity Cruises brand to what it is today,” said Liberty.
Hodges-Bethge has been with Royal Group for more than 23 years and held senior positions in a number of different departments, including product development, hotel and marine operations, sales, product innovation and investor relations.
She was previously senior vice-president of product development for Royal Caribbean International, during which she led its teams creating new experiences such as the private island resort, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
"I would also like to congratulate Laura for her appointment as the next brand president of Celebrity Cruises," Liberty added. “With her operational experience, business acumen and deep understanding of our company and the cruise industry, I know Laura is the right person to lead Celebrity Cruises to its next phases of growth."
“Now 15 ships strong, this is an exciting time for Celebrity Cruises,” said Hodges-Bethge. “This year alone, we’ll be welcoming Celebrity Ascent, and reaching key construction milestones in the yet-to-be-named fifth ship in the revolutionary Edge Series.
“I look forward to building on the incredible achievements of Lisa and this world class team, as we continue to break boundaries and chart new courses in the industry.”
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