A-ROSA appoints Michael Ungerer as the new Group Chairman with immediate effect, bringing to the company his long and extensive leadership experience in the cruise and hospitality industry.
Michael Ungerer began his career in 1988 with Norwegian Cruise Line, Sonesta Hotels & Resorts, and The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. He later became Senior Vice President of Operations for AIDA Cruises in Rostock in 2004 and subsequently President of AIDA Cruises in 2012. From 2015 to 2018, Ungerer served as Chief Operating Officer for Asia at Carnival Corporation. Between 2019 and early 2018, he led the successful launch and growth of the luxury cruise line Explora Journeys as CEO.
A-ROSA's management is delighted to work with him to consolidate A-ROSA as a market leader and driver of innovation in the premium segment of the river cruise industry.
Michael Ungerer, in his new role, said: “Being appointed Chairman of Germany’s leading river cruise company is a true honor and a privilege. A-ROSA is a brand I created myself more than 20 years ago. Having seen the brand grow and excel despite many challenges, I am excited to provide strategic guidance and collaborate with the executive management, owners, and all stakeholders to strengthen our leadership position and focus on the next phase of sustainable growth.”
Furthermore, Jörg Eichler will step down as CEO and Managing Director in mid-2025 to pursue a new role within the tourism sector. Since joining the company in 2013, its fleet has grown from 10 to 15 ships sailing the Danube, Douro, Rhine/Main/Moselle, Rhône, and Seine rivers. Together with the A-ROSA team, Eichler quickly returned the company to a successful trajectory, enabling A-ROSA to achieve record sales and occupancy rates in 2023, a figure expected to be surpassed in 2024.
The company expects to announce Jörg Eichler's successor shortly, who will continue to develop forward-thinking concepts for river cruises. Jörg Eichler will remain CEO until the transition is successfully completed. He will then remain a shareholder. Markus Zoepke, Chief Operating Officer and a partner in the company since 2003, will continue to be responsible for operations at the headquarters in Chur, Switzerland.
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