Cruise executives ignite excitement about the future of its industry.
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLA. – The first general session of the Cruises Inc., CruiseOne and Dream Vacations 2017 National Conference aboard Royal Caribbean International’s Harmony of the Seas confirmed that it is an exciting time to work in the travel industry and sell cruises. Cruise line executives took center stage, sharing their outlook on what’s ahead.
The cruise industry is one of the fastest growing segments of the travel industry. Industry thought leader, Chair of the Cruise Lines International Association Trade Relations Committee and Senior Vice President of Sales, Trade Support and Services at Royal Caribbean International Vicki Freed kicked off the general session and shared insights and tips on growing a business and achieving success — advice based on her decades of experience in the cruise industry.
“We’ve had an incredible start to the week with our special guests. On top of experiencing the world’s largest and most innovative cruise ship firsthand, agents have been so engaged in really harnessing their skills to build on the success of their business,” said Vicki Freed. “The networking and sharing of ideas is the type of opportunity that’s helped Royal Caribbean create such longstanding relationships with travel professionals. Our loyalty is built on support, and that’s what this week is all about.”
Senior Vice President Debbie Fiorino presented a motivational speech reviewing the past year’s accomplishments, including how the travel industry and the Cruises Inc., CruiseOne and Dream Vacations family all came together to overcome the macroeconomic events of 2017. When reflecting on the value of being part of a larger host agency and franchise, she noted “We each have individual goals and individual success, but we are better when we are all better together.”
Also during the General Session, conference attendees learned about the newest features and innovations from individual cruise lines, and also heard from six industry thought leaders all at once in what has become a signature feature of National Conference – the cruise line executive panel. General Manager of Network Engagement & Performance Drew Daly moderated a discussion with:
- Vicki Freed – senior vice president, sales, trade support and service, Royal Caribbean International
- Adolfo Perez – vice president, trade sales and marketing, Carnival Cruise Line
- Ron Gulaskey – associate vice president, national & strategic accounts, Celebrity Cruises
- Eva Jenner – vice president, sales, Holland America Line and Seabourn
- Camille Olivere – senior vice president, sales, Norwegian Cruise Line
- John Chernesky – vice president of North American sales, Princess Cruises
- Joe Jiffo – senior vice president of sales, North America, MSC Cruises
The General Session concluded with keynote speaker and Air Force Veteran Lt. Col. (ret.) Waldo Waldman providing tips on how business owners can ACHIEVE greater success. He shared strategies on how to adapt to change, build trusting partnerships and develop courage to reach new heights in business and life.
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She holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication & Mass Media from Panteion University of Political & Social Studies of Athens and she has been editor and editor-in-chief in various economic magazines and newspapers.
