Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.announced that its Board of Directors has appointed John W. Chidsey, a current member of the NCLH Board, as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately.
Chidsey succeeds Harry Sommer, who is stepping down from his roles as Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors of NCLH.
Mr. Chidsey has a proven track record of leading large, global, consumer-focused companies through strategic and operational transformation processes, with experience in both franchise-based business models and asset-intensive, performance-driven businesses. Throughout his career, he has been appointed to lead companies at critical junctures, strengthening execution, restoring operational discipline, and positioning organizations for improved performance.
Most recently, he served for five years as Chief Executive Officer of Subway Restaurants, where he led a multi-year plan to reposition the brand, modernize operations, and strengthen the company's long-term growth trajectory. He was appointed to the NCLH Board of Directors in February 2025 and had previously served on the board from 2013 to 2022.
Chairman of the Board Stella David stated, “During his tenure on the Board of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, John has been a highly respected leader and a key strategic voice. He is the right person to guide the company into its next phase of execution and performance improvement. He has demonstrated his ability to lead businesses through significant transformations with a focus on operational rigor and accountability. We are excited about his appointment as President and Chief Executive Officer and are confident that his leadership will strengthen execution, improve financial performance, reduce leverage, and drive long-term value creation for shareholders. On behalf of the Board, I thank Harry for his many years of dedication and service to the company.”.
Mr. Chidsey stated, “It is an honor to assume the role of President and Chief Executive Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. I look forward to building upon the strong foundation already established by the company’s award-winning brands, dedicated staff and crew, and loyal guests. In my new position, my priority will be to work closely with the Board and management team to refine execution, enhance performance, and continue delivering exceptional vacation experiences while generating long-term, sustainable value.”.
The company expects its net income for the fourth quarter of 2025 to be around the midpoint of the previously reported range, and anticipates its core quarterly and full-year 2025 results to be in line with the guidance issued on November 4, 2025. NCLH will provide additional information when it publishes its fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 results on Monday, March 2, 2026.
Mr. Chidsey most recently served as Chief Executive Officer of Subway Restaurants for five years, leading a multi-year process to reposition the brand, modernize operations, and strengthen its long-term growth. Prior to that, he was Chief Executive Officer of Burger King Holdings, Inc., having previously served as President and Chief Financial Officer, where he played a central role in improving operational discipline and managing significant change processes. Earlier in his career, he held senior leadership positions at Cendant Corporation, including President and Chief Executive Officer of two major divisions. He led the Vehicle Services Division, overseeing brands such as Avis Rent A Car and Budget Rent A Car Systems, as well as PHH and Wright Express, and the Financial Services Division, which included Jackson Hewitt, driving performance improvements across diversified portfolios. He began his career in senior finance roles at PepsiCo.
Mr. Chidsey holds an MBA in Finance and Accounting and a Juris Doctor (JD) from Emory University, in addition to a Bachelor of Arts (BA) from Davidson College.
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