Riviera Travel has officially named Will Sarson as the new head of product for river and ocean cruises.
- Sarson succeeds Katja Hildebrandt, who leaves after a commendable 16-year tenure with Riviera Travel.
- The transition involves Sarson maintaining his prior responsibilities while taking on his new role from November.
- Neil Puffett will assume new reporting duties from Sarson, effective 1 September.
- Riviera Travel’s expansion includes a recent launch of a 10-night cruise in partnership with Celestyal Cruises.
Riviera Travel has confirmed the appointment of Will Sarson as head of product for river and ocean cruises, a critical role formerly occupied by Katja Hildebrandt, who is departing after 16 years with the company. Sarson, who previously served as the head of product strategy and long haul, is set to embark on a transitional phase starting in early September, officially assuming his new responsibilities in November. He remains under the supervision of Robin Shaw, the chief operating officer, and retains his responsibility over the long-haul product team.
Sarson’s new responsibilities include crafting and enhancing cruise itineraries, as well as the development of existing programmes. This strategic move underscores Riviera Travel’s commitment to strengthening its cruise offerings. The transition has been planned to ensure continuity and seamless service. Robin Shaw stated, “Will’s know-how and experience means he is ideally placed to step into this critical role.” This confidence is further bolstered by an eight-year collaboration between Sarson and Hildebrandt, which Shaw believes will facilitate a smooth transition.
Another development involves a structural adjustment within Riviera’s capacity management team, which will now report to Neil Puffett as of 1 September. Puffett, who heads aviation and transport, has worked closely with the team since joining Riviera in June of the previous year, positioning him well to take over reporting duties from Sarson. These organisational changes reflect Riviera Travel’s broader strategy to optimise its operational workflows and improve focus on key areas.
Sarson expressed enthusiasm about his new appointment, acknowledging the high standards set by Hildebrandt. He remarked, “Having worked closely with the cruise team over the past few years, I know what an amazing product we have in place. I am excited to build on all of the fantastic work that Katja has put into making our cruise offering the best in the business.” His statement echoes a forward-thinking vision aimed at leveraging the firm foundation Hildebrandt established.
The recent introduction of a 10-night Athens & Greek Islands cruise – a collaborative effort with Celestyal Cruises – marks Riviera’s push towards expanding and diversifying its travel portfolio. This initiative, announced earlier this month, signals the company’s dedication to providing varied and enriched travel experiences for its clientele.
Riviera Travel’s strategic leadership changes aim to solidify its position in the cruise market.
