Friday, 4 October 2024
HX taps cruise industry veteran Smotrys as Americas’ MD
by Rose White
HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) has appointed expedition cruise guru Steve Smotrys to the newly created role of Managing Director & Senior Vice President of Commercial in the Americas, effective mid-October.
Smotrys was most recently Vice President of Global Sales and Trade Relations – Luxury Ocean Voyages and Expeditions with Seabourn. His role was made redundant at the Carnival Corporation led-business which blended many US-based roles of sister brands, Seabourn and Holland America Line.
HX said Smotrys’ “strategic hire underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing its presence in one of the most vital markets for travel”.
Smotrys, a respected figure in cruise and travel industry brings decades of experience and a proven track record in driving commercial sales and fostering strong partnerships. His appointment follows the company’s successful recent fam trip which took place two weeks ago, during which HX hosted over 200 travel partners on a bespoke expedition cruise from Vancouver to Seattle. The event marked the largest trade event of its kind to date for the company and highlighted the company’s dedication to collaboration but also reinforced the significance of the Americas market in its global strategy.
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As MD & SVP of Commercial, Smotrys will spearhead the development and execution of the ongoing strategy aimed at expanding trade sales across the United States and Canada. His extensive background and cruise industry insights will be pivotal in building further relationships and creating innovative solutions that cater to the evolving needs of travel advisors and partners.
“We are excited to welcome Steve to our team,” said Alex Delamere-White, Chief Commercial Officer for HX.
“Steve’s leadership and vision will be instrumental as we continue to strengthen our presence in the Americas and drive our growth strategy forward.”
“With his expertise, we are well-positioned to capitalise on emerging opportunities and enhance our partnerships even further in this key market. As Steve takes the helm for important areas such as our trade sales, I’m confident the company is poised to achieve significant milestones in the coming years.”
Smotrys said, “I am honoured to take on this role at such a pivotal time for the company. I look forward to working closely with our team and partners to unlock new avenues for growth and innovation in the Americas and beyond.”
“I’m looking forward to delivering exceptional travel experiences and building lasting relationships in the industry.”
Smotrys has over 24 years of experience in the cruise industry, the last four of which were at Seabourn. Before that, he had roles such as Vice President, North America Sales at Cunard and Revenue Management at Princess Cruises.
In his new leadership role, Smotrys will oversee all aspects of HX’s commercial and sales offerings and relationships, leading a strong team of business development managers across the USA and Canada. Smotrys will report directly to Alex Delamere-White, Chief Commercial Officer for HX.
With his years of industry knowledge in the mainstream cruise industry and his collaborative approach, Smotrys will be looking at how he can distinguish HX in The Americas which offers guests the perfect balance of all-inclusive comfort, adventure and focus on sustainability.
The post HX taps cruise industry veteran Smotrys as Americas’ MD appeared first on LATTE Luxury News.
