Genting Hong Kong has announced the appointment of Tom Wolber as the President & CEO of its ultra-luxury cruise brand Crystal Cruises following the departure of Edie Rodriguez.
Wolber joins the company from the Walt Disney Company where he served in various executive roles for 28 years, 10 of them as Senior Vice President of Operations with Disney Cruise Line.
“Crystal has developed a venerable reputation across the travel industry and my first responsibility will be continuing to deliver the world-class service and itineraries Crystal is renowned for,” he said in a statement. “I thank Chairman Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay for placing his faith in me and I look forward to spearheading some of the most innovative new-builds and experiences the cruise and hospitality industry has ever seen in the years ahead.”
Wolber – whose previous role saw him transform Disney Cruise Line from a Port Canaveral based firm to a global cruise line – arrives at a key time for Crystal Cruises, which will launch four new cruise ships in 2017 and 2018 as well as the company’s first “Endeavour Class” expedition yacht and a private Boeing 777.
“Tom’s proven leadership skills will be invaluable to Crystal as the line takes delivery of four river ships in 2017 and 2018 as well as the first of the ‘Endeavor Class’ expedition yachts in 2019,” said Mr Lim.
“His leadership will be key to the finalization of specifications and design for the new ‘Exclusive Class’ oceangoing vessels. Tom has our full confidence and we look forward to working closely with him to ensuring Crystal remains unmatched in the luxury travel segment.”
Ms Rodriguez joined Crystal in October 2013 before being promoted to President & CEO following its acquisition by Genting Hong Kong in May 2015.
Genting Hong Kong also launched its new Asian-based World Dream cruise ship – part of its Dream Cruises subsidiary – at a glitzy event at Hong Kong’s Kerry Hotel last Friday.