The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has appointed Charles “Bud” Darr as its President and Chief Executive Officer, a position he will assume on February 3, 2025. Darr will succeed Kelly Craighead, who earlier this year announced her plans to leave the organization at the end of the year.
Darr returns to CLIA after previously serving as Senior Vice President of Technical and Regulatory Affairs from 2010 to 2017. He joins from the MSC Group, where he was Executive Vice President of Maritime Policy and Government Affairs for more than seven years. He has also held positions with the U.S. Coast Guard, including Deputy Chief of Maritime and International Law, and has served in the U.S. Navy, Merchant Marine, and Coast Guard.
“Bud’s proven leadership skills and dedication to advancing environmental leadership policies and practices in the cruise industry make him the ideal candidate to guide us into a new era of growth and innovation,” said Jason Liberty, Chairman of CLIA’s Board of Directors. “His extensive experience and understanding of the maritime industry will be invaluable assets to CLIA as we set even higher standards for success. I look forward to working with him to further our collective mission.”
As President and CEO, Darr will lead the next phase of CLIA’s global strategy at a pivotal time for the industry, as the cruise sector continues on a strong and responsible growth trajectory in support of its 2050 sustainability goals. A highly respected figure in the maritime world, Darr brings exceptional experience and outstanding relationships within the global cruise industry and related sectors such as trade, equipment, ports, shipyards, and service providers.
“I am delighted to return to CLIA and grateful for the trust that CLIA’s Global Executive Committee and member lines have placed in me,” commented Darr. “With the dynamic changes and opportunities ahead, this industry is poised to chart new paths and raise the bar for innovation and sustainability. I look forward to leveraging our collective expertise to propel us toward an even brighter future. Together, we will navigate global complexities and achieve significant milestones.”
Follow cruise news at Cruisesnews.es
