Genting Hong Kong announced the appointment of tourism industry veteran Tom Wolberas the new President and CEO of Crystal Cruises, effective September 15. Wolber brings over three decades of experience in general management, operations, shipbuilding, and business development, which he will contribute to Crystal Cruises during its most significant expansion since its founding in 1988.
“Tom’s proven leadership skills will be invaluable to Crystal, which will receive four river cruise ships in 2017 and 2018, as well as the first Endeavour Class expedition yacht in 2019,” said Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, Chairman of the Board of Genting Hong Kong and Crystal Cruises. “His leadership will be key to finalizing the specifications and design of the new Executive Class ocean-going ships. Tom has our full confidence, and we look forward to working closely with him to ensure that Crystal remains unrivaled in the luxury travel segment.”
“Crystal has developed a venerable reputation throughout the travel industry, and my first responsibility will be to continue delivering the international service and itineraries for which Crystal is renowned,” said Tom Wolber. “I thank Chairman Tan Sri Lim 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 will see in the coming years.”
Wolber joins Crystal after spending 28 years with The Walt Disney Company in various executive roles, 10 of which were with Disney Cruise Line as Senior Vice President of Operations. Wolber was instrumental in transforming Disney Cruise Line from a Port Canaveral-based vacation provider into a global company with itineraries throughout North America, the Mediterranean, and the Baltic. During his time at Disney, Wolber contributed to the successful design and launch of new ships, including the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy. In addition, Wolber served as President and CEO of Disneyland Paris and held senior executive positions in Disney theme park and resort operations at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida.
“Since acquiring Crystal in 2015, Genting has worked tirelessly to expand the Crystal brand, launching two river cruise ships with a third imminent, an expedition yacht, and a private Boeing 777 – certainly no easy feat,” added Tan Sri Lim. “’s leadership Edie Rodriguez, Crystal has successfully launched three new brands: Crystal Yachts, Crystal River Cruises, and Crystal Air. We thank Edie for her service to the company, appreciate all her hard work, and wish her the very best in her future endeavors.”
““It has been an extraordinary experience leading Crystal to global relevance, and I am very proud of my accomplishments,” said Rodriguez. “I cannot thank Chairman Tan Sri Lim enough for his trust and investment in securing Crystal’s future with a great expansion strategy that we firmly implemented. I am happy to hand over the reins, knowing that Crystal will be well served by the incredibly talented and hardworking people across the company, on land, sea, air, and rivers. I look forward to announcing my next challenge soon.”“.
Rodriguez joined Crystal as President and COO in October 2013; and was promoted to President and CEO as soon as the company was acquired by Genting Hong Kong in May 2015. Prior to Crystal, Rodriguez held senior marketing, sales, and business development positions at other cruise and luxury companies.
