Family-owned AmaWaterways has been expanding so quickly the founders are bringing in new talent to boost the leadership team. Former Disney and hospitality industry executive Catherine Powell will join AmaWaterways as President, working alongside well-known co-founders Rudi Schreiner and Kristin Karst.
Powell was chosen to complement the existing leadership team and contribute to the company’s future success, the company says. She’s got an impressive track record of driving growth and strategy in the hospitality, and travel industries. For more than 15 years she was an executive at The Walt Disney Company, becoming President of Disney theme parks. Most recently, she served as Global Head of Hosting at Airbnb, overseeing its global community of more than five million hosts of both homes and experiences. She is also a passionate advocate for inclusive cultures and employee development.
“I am thrilled and honored to join AmaWaterways as its new President. The company’s commitment to exceptional guest experiences, innovation, and sustainability aligns perfectly with my own values and vision for the future of travel. Having spent my career in entertainment and hospitality, I’m excited to bring my passion for creating unforgettable moments to the world of luxury river cruising. I look forward to working alongside the talented team at AmaWaterways to build upon their impressive legacy and chart new courses for growth and excellence in the industry,” Powell said.
Powell reports directly to Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and CEO, maintaining continuity in the company’s strategic direction. Schreiner expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment, stating, “Catherine’s vision aligns perfectly with our ethos of exceptional guest experiences and innovation. Her leadership will be instrumental in propelling AmaWaterways to new heights. As we move into this new chapter of growth, we are confident that Catherine’s expertise and vision will be instrumental in exploring new opportunities within the luxury river cruise market, while staying true to our core values.”
Kristin Karst will continue her role as co-owner and co-founder while also taking on the position of Chief Brand Ambassador. “I very much look forward to not only creating more awareness and forging relationships internationally, but to maintaining and strengthening our very important relationships with our travel trade (partners) who have always been at the heart of AmaWaterways,“ said Karst. “Together we will continue building on the foundation of trust and excellence for which AmaWaterways is known, ensuring we deliver unforgettable experiences to our guests around the world.”
AmaWaterways is expanding not only in Europe but also with new ships on the Nile in Egypt and the Magdalena River in Colombia.
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