Madrid, November 21, 2017- Pullmantur Cruises has completed the strengthening of its Operations Department with the addition of two professionals with extensive experience in the cruise sector: Austrian Bernd Weidacher ('Benny'), who has been appointed VP Ship Operations, and Bulgarian Plamen Belyovski, Director Technical Ship Management, a position created at this time.
Pullmantur Cruises President & CEO Richard J. Vogel says that the arrival of Weidacher and Belyovski is “fundamental” since “both are part of Operations, a strategic department due to its direct involvement with our guests' experience.”.
"Their contribution will bevital since, in addition to the upcoming dry docks that we already have planned, we will implement numerous and relevant projects that we have been involved in for months, key to our transformation," says Vogel.
He also added: “I am absolutely convinced that the extensive experience of both professionals and their team management skills will be essential in achieving our objectives in the short, medium and long term.”
Benny Weidacher, VP Ship Operations
Reporting directly to Richard J. Vogel, Weidacher will lead his team in the Hotel & Onboard Revenue; Ports & Ground Operations; Shorex; Fleet Marine Operations; and Operations Efficiency Costs & Onboard Revenue Control departments.
Initially, the focus will be on developing initiatives to improve guest satisfaction and operational efficiency. Simultaneously, the role will lead strategic projects aligned with all company departments.
In addition to a successful career demonstrating an entrepreneurial spirit and a strong commitment to innovation, Weidacher brings valuable experience in diverse areas (hotels, marine, dry dock projects, and refits) and a 20-year career in the cruise industry. During this time, he has held various positions of responsibility both onboard and ashore, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the business.
Plamen Belyovski, Director Technical Ship Management
Plamen Belyovski, a naval engineer by degree and profession, has extensive experience, including 24 years as Chief Engineer on board various types of vessels.
Among the responsibilities of Belyovski, who reports to Weidacher, are coordinating and supervising technical services, safety and maintenance of all ships in the fleet as well as budget control, with his role being key in dry dock projects
Always linked to the sector, Belyovski has been in charge of teams of more than 80 people and led projects in engineering, operations, maintenance, engine control, or the automation of passenger and cargo ship systems.
