Celebrity Cruises has appointed Giles Hawke as the new vice-president and managing director for the EMEA region, effective September 2023.
- Hawke transitions from his role as CEO at Cosmos and Avalon Waterways UK, bringing 30 years of travel industry experience with him.
- He replaces Jo Rzymowska, who served in the position for 18 years, and will report to Celebrity’s new president, Laura Hodges Bethge.
- Hawke has held prominent roles, including as sales and customer service director at Carnival UK, and as UK & Ireland MD for MSC Cruises.
- Both Celebrity Cruises’ president and Hawke express enthusiasm about the appointment and the future growth of the EMEA market.
In a significant leadership change, Celebrity Cruises has announced the appointment of Giles Hawke as the new vice-president and managing director for the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region. Hawke, who boasts an extensive career spanning three decades in the travel sector, will assume his new role in September 2023. The move marks a transition from his previous position as the chief executive of Cosmos and Avalon Waterways UK.
Hawke succeeds Jo Rzymowska, who has been a pivotal figure in Celebrity Cruises’ EMEA operations for the last 18 years. During his tenure, Hawke will report directly to Laura Hodges Bethge, who has recently been appointed as Celebrity Cruises’ president. This change comes at a pivotal moment as the company seeks to expand and solidify its presence in the EMEA market.
Throughout his career, Hawke has accumulated a wealth of experience in the cruise industry. He has served in various senior positions, including as sales and customer service director at Carnival UK. Additionally, his strategic vision was demonstrated during his time as the managing director for MSC Cruises in the UK and Ireland, further cementing his credentials for the new role at Celebrity.
Celebrity Cruises’ president, Laura Hodges Bethge, has expressed her excitement about Hawke joining her leadership team. She highlighted his strong leadership skills and commercial acumen as invaluable assets to the company’s strategy to grow its market share in EMEA. Hawke himself has articulated his eagerness to contribute to Celebrity’s innovative journey and to work under Bethge’s leadership, which he regards as the next exciting chapter for the brand.
In addition to his new responsibilities, Hawke will continue to serve on the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Executive Committee. This role will enable him to support and lead change across the wider cruise sector, ensuring that Celebrity Cruises remains at the forefront of industry developments.
Giles Hawke’s appointment is poised to enhance Celebrity Cruises’ strategic growth within the EMEA region.
