The world’s largest cruise company is seeing a big change at the top of its leadership board. Carnival Corporation — parent of Carnival Cruise Line, Princess, Cunard, and others — said today that August 1, 2022, current President and Chief Executive Officer Arnold Donald will step down from his role at the company.
The current Chief Operations Officer — Josh Weinstein — will take over the role of President and CEO.
Donald, who has held the top job at Carnival since 2013, isn’t going far. He will take over the role as Vice Chair and member of the Boards of Directors.
The move comes as Carnival Corporation — and other cruise companies — now look to be on the other side of the global health crisis that put the entire industry in turmoil. While COVID cases are still present (including a downtrend in the number of ‘green’ ships according to the CDC), overall cases have seemed to abated while the cruise industry has brought back most ships.
Passengers also seem eager to cruise again. In fact, Carnival Cruise Line recently announced their best week for bookings ever during late March/early April.
In other words, the change in leadership happens at what could be the start of a promising time for Carnival Corporation.
“Cannot Think of Anyone Better Suited For This Role…”
Weinstein has been with the company for two decades, with the last two years as the Chief Operations Officer during the shutdown — and restart — of cruise operations. He also served as treasurer for the cruise company, an attorney in the legal department, and oversaw Carnival UK.
“Josh is a proven executive who is well-respected throughout the company, serving in key leadership roles, driving strong business results during his tenure and playing an integral part in stewarding the company through the global pandemic,” current CEO Arnold Donald said.
“Josh’s thorough understanding of our industry, operations and business strategy puts him in a tremendous position to lead the next phase of our company’s journey. With his vision, intensity and core values truly aligned to those of our company, I cannot think of anyone better suited for this role than Josh.”
While it’s unclear what priorities the new CEO will focus on, Carnival Corporation has made a significant push in recent years toward larger ships and more efficient fleets. This included removing a significant portion of older ships during the pause in sailing and welcoming the LNG-powered Mardi Gras (along with planned sister ships Celebration and Jubilee) to the Carnival Cruise Line fleet.
No matter the focus, it’s clear that Weinstein has a grasp of how big the job leading the world’s largest cruise company will be.
“I am truly humbled to take up the role of CEO and am honored to lead such a talented team of over 100,000 ship and shoreside team members who do such an incredible job in delivering unforgettable, happy vacations to our guests, day in and day out,” Weinstein said via press release.
