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2024 Speakers

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Discover the 2024 Speakers
Kamal Abdollah

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Katherine R. Avelino

Executive Director Business Development, Shipping/ SVP Cruise Operations

Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc.

Katherine Avelino, better known in the industry as Karen, has been an active speaker/participant at various international maritime fora. She is currently the Executive director of Business Development and the Senior Vice President of the Cruise Division of Philippine Transmarine Carriers, Inc., one of the biggest Crew Management and Crew Agency organization in the Philippines. Karen boasts over 17 years of maritime experience, encompassing Business Development, Training, Crew Development, and manpower supply for leading cruise line companies. Presently, she serves as the President of the Philippine Association of Maritime Training Centers, Inc., Executive Committee member of MSC Crewing Services, Inc., a Board of Trustee member of the Filipino Shipowners Association, a Board of Director at RCCL Crew Management, Inc., and a distinguished member of The Women in Shipping Panel, established by the International Chamber of Shipping in the UK to advocate for gender equality and diversity in the maritime sector. Her exceptional contributions have been acknowledged through the prestigious title of Maritime SheEO of the year by Maritime SheEO, an esteemed global organization dedicated to driving positive change in the maritime and related industries through initiatives focusing on diversity & inclusion (D&I), leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, and competitive advantage. Karen is deeply passionate about sports, with a particular focus on running. This year, she seized the opportunity to participate in the TBR Marathon (42 km) in February, followed by the TCS London Marathon on April 21 alongside her daughter, proudly representing the Seafarer's Charity. Karen frequently engages in running races with her family, fostering a shared love for fitness and wellness. Representing the best and brightest of PTC, Karen is proof positive that the PTC vision, mission and values are alive and well across the organization. Karen remains in humble, energized service as she contributes her time, passion and knowledge to transforming the Filipino seafarers into Global Maritime Professionals.

Jeff Bent

Managing Director

Worldwide Cruise Terminals

Jeff Bent is the managing director at Worldwide Cruise Terminals, a joint venture company managing and operating Hong Kong's storied Kai Tak Cruise Terminal. He previously worked in passenger services at the Hong Kong and Singapore airports for his employer Worldwide Flight Services, the world's largest independent air cargo handler, and since 2024 a member of the SATS group. Jeff is a chartered fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport and participates in the China Ports and Harbors Association Cruise Subcommittee. He holds degrees from Connecticut College, Cornell University, and the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Jeff speaks Cantonese and Mandarin and has lived in Asia for 30 years, primarily in Hong Kong.

Mary Bond

Moderator 

Seatrade Cruise

Mary has worked in the shipping industry, first and foremost, as a journalist for 40 years. For the last 35 years her single focus has been following developments and charting the growth of the global cruise industry. Her current position is Group Portfolio Director, Seatrade Cruise overseeing the brand’s live events, publishing and digital portfolio. She is also editor-in-chief and publisher of Seatrade Cruise Review quarterly, the official magazine at Seatrade cruise events worldwide and a contributor to Seatrade Cruise News, the leading daily online news service for the global cruise industry. Mary is married with one daughter, living in Essex, and has a passion for football, travel, gardening and the sea!

Errol Chicano

Commercial Manager Asia Pacific & Indian Ocean

Intercruises Shoreside & Port Services

Errol began his career in the cruise industry with Royal Caribbean Group as a Shore Excursions Manager for both Azamara and Celebrity, before joining Intercruises in 2015 as Regional Product Manager for Asia, where he was responsible for shorex program development across thirteen countries. Errol then took on the role of Commercial Manager Asia Pacific & Indian Ocean, maintaining many of his product development activities, but with an enhanced focus on client relationship development to support strategic growth opportunities. 

Dickson Chin

Managing Director, Ship Agency

Wallem

Dickson Chin joined Wallem in 2008, first as the General Manager for the Hong Kong agency office. In this role, he doubled the number of cruise calls Wallem handled and has been instrumental in expanding Wallem’s cruise agency services. Today, some 35 cruise lines entrust Wallem with the ship calls in Asia. In 2012, Dickson was promoted to Managing Director, Indo China, and in 2014 he was appointed as the Managing Director, Ship Agency, leading Wallem’s global network of the agency offices. Dickson graduated from the Southampton Solent University with a bachelor’s degree in Maritime Leisure Management. He is proficient in English, Cantonese, Mandarin and Swedish.

Jae-hwan Choi

Director

Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, Marine Leisure Tourism Division

Director Jae-hwan Choi is currently in charge of the Marine Leisure Tourism Division of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, in charge of the laws, systems and operations related to marine tourism, including the development of the Korean cruise industry, marine leisure tourism, marina port construction and management, and marine leisure sports promotion. Director Choi is an expert in the tourism industry and policy, having been in charge of the promotion of Korean tourism and tourism industry policy for five years at the Domestic Tourism Promotion Division and Tourism Industry Policy Division of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. He is a prominent expert in fostering the Korean cruise industry, which is intricately linked to the shipping, port and tourism sectors.

Bud Darr

Executive Vice President, Maritime Policy and Government Affairs

MSC Group

An experienced global maritime leader in the areas of policy, government, and related law, Bud Darr is Executive Vice President, Maritime Policy and Government Affairs of MSC Group which operates in 155 countries. Having served in the US Navy, Merchant Marine, and Coast Guard, as well as being an accomplished ocean yacht racer, Bud's longstanding connection with the sea and ships is both personal and professional. Bud began his education in Submarine Nuclear Engineering and later obtained his formal undergraduate education at the US Merchant Marine Academy, where he was trained as a Deck Officer. During his service with the US Coast Guard, he studied law at the George Washington University Law School. He most recently led the Maritime Policy efforts of the Cruise Lines International Association prior to joining the MSC Group in 2017. Today, Bud is engaged across MSC's Cargo and Passenger divisions, continuing to develop and refine the company's central Government Affairs function, based at the Group's headquarters in Geneva. He is closely involved in MSC's response to developments in environmental public policy and regulation and other industry-wide issues such as greenhouse gas emissions, maritime security, safety at sea, and international shipping policy. He serves on the Boards for the UK Chamber of Shipping, BIMCO, International Chamber of Shipping, Liberian Shipowners' Council, Seamen’s Church Institute, and Society for Gas as a Marine Fuel.

Calypso Diareme

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Sascha Gill

CEO

UNITED WATERWAYS

Sascha has previously worked as Vice President Environment and Sustainability for CLIA on whose behalf he had worked within the European Sustainable Shipping Forum on the implementation of Fuel EU Maritime for the Cruise Sector. One of the key projects launched during this tender, was the alignment of the cruise operators to invest into a combined ocean and river study. Together with CLIA, IGRC, DNV, Ricardo and RINA, the biggest ever research was launched to outline the pathways for fuel and onboard technology infrastructure for the next decade within cruise. In April 2024, he joined one of CLIA’s partners, UNITED WATERWAYS - the largest white label operator on the waterways, where he now holds the position of CEO. Sascha is also the Vice President of the European River Cruise Association. In his earlier career, he worked as Vice President, Nautical Operations and has had several roles within hotel operations, and learning and development, for Viking Cruises. Before working in the cruise sector, he held the position of Senior Consultant Brand Protection for Richey International with responsibility for Asia and the US. Formerly, Sascha worked for leading hotel brands, namely Marriott, Intercontinental and Hilton in Russia and Central Europe. His cruise experience also includes roles onboard Seabourn Cruise Line and Cunard. Sascha holds a Doctorate in Business from Nottingham Trent University, an MBA from Oxford Brookes University and an Executive Master Environmental Policy Making and International Negotiations from IHEID Geneva.

Jens Gorka

Chief Shipboard Operations Officer

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Jens Gorka holds the position of Chief Shipboard Operations Officer for The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. In this role, he oversees hotel shipboard operations, shipboard finance, procurement, and logistics across the fleet. Having previously served as Senior Vice President of Shipboard Operations, his leadership significantly enhanced guest satisfaction scores and financial performance for the company. Mr. Gorka comes to The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection with over 20 years of cruise experience having previously worked for Silversea Cruises where he held various positions in operations and finance, most recently as VP of Hotel Operations. Jens earned his MBA from the prestigious EHL Hospitality Business School.

Grant Holmes

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Sae Ichikawa

General Manager, Port Operations Group & Destination Experience Group

Mitsui Ocean Cruises

Sae Ichikawa has a diverse and extensive background in the maritime and cruise industries. She began her career in 2005 with Maersk, one of the world’s largest shipping companies, working in the frozen cargo division, where she gained significant experience in logistics and operations. In 2008, Sae joined A.P.M Maersk A/S at their headquarters in Denmark as an Assistant Manager in the Global Seafood division, where she oversaw critical international logistics for reefer cargo (temperature-controlled cargo). In 2011, Sae transitioned to the public sector, contributing to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Emergency Humanitarian Assistance Division. This role honed her skills in crisis management and coordination. In 2012, she moved into the cruise industry, taking on the role of Cruise Manager for Wilhelmsen Ships Service, where she was responsible for overseeing cruise operations. By 2016, she had risen to the position of Director for Asia Port Operations at Princess Cruises, where she led port operations across Asia. Her leadership ensured seamless cruise experiences for passengers and destinations, including managing the operations during the Diamond Princess COVID-19 outbreak in Japan. Most recently, in December 2023, Sae was appointed Deputy General Manager of the Wellbeing Division’s Cruise Unit at Mitsui O.S.K. Lines. As of April 2024, she has taken on the role of General Manager, overseeing both the Port Operations Group and the Destination Experience Group at Mitsui Ocean Cruises.

Tim Jones

Vice President & Managing Director, Australia & APAC

Celebrity Cruises

Tim Jones is VP & Managing Director for Celebrity Cruises, Australia, New Zealand & Asia, overseeing the business operations and building Celebrity’s momentum in the region. A veteran travel industry executive with vast international experience in markets including Australia and New Zealand; the UK and Ireland; Asia-Pacific; and the Middle East, Tim has a wealth of leadership experience within the travel industry, and a track-record of creating value, growth and impact for iconic global travel and leisure brands. Tim joined Celebrity Cruises in September 2020 following his role with National Geographic Partners, where he most recently served as Vice President, Travel for the APAC and Middle East Regions and Managing Director of Australia and New Zealand, driving ambitious revenue and growth and strategically driving commercial partnerships in Australia and China. Prior to this, he spent 10 years with Tourism Australia serving in a number of senior positions, including General Manager, Asia Markets and Global Strategic Partnerships; and Interim Executive General Manager, International Division. Here, he drove visitation from the Asia-Pacific region and developed and increased global partnerships with other well-known travel brands; including airlines and travel distributors. Earlier in his career, he held product, marketing and sales positions with Qantas Holidays and Thomas Cook in the UK.

Joel Katz

Managing Director

CLIA Australasia

Joel Katz has led Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia as its Managing Director since 2016 after an extensive career in cruising and hospitality, including roles at sea, in the UK, Europe, Central Asia and Australia. In this role, Joel heads an Australasia based team that is responsible for the promotion and development of the cruise industry across the region through trade relations, industry training, and advocacy activities on behalf of CLIA’s Cruise Line Members. He has led the regional organisation through significant growth in membership, and pre-pandemic helped cement the region’s place as one of the fastest growing cruise markets in the world in terms of population penetration. Through the pandemic, Joel worked closely with cruise line leadership, industry partners, and governments across the region to advocate for a responsible cruise resumption.

Anthony Kaufmann

Head of Commercial Strategies

Mitsui Ocean Cruises

Tony Kaufman has more than 30 years of senior executive experience in the cruise industry, leading commercial, business and legal strategies across multiple disciplines. As a former Executive Vice President within Carnival Corporation & plc, Tony led teams in finance, human resources, information technology and legal, ethics and compliance. He also led the international business operations of Princess Cruises, including its expansion across Asia, oversaw onboard revenue, worldwide shore operations and supply chain. Tony began his career as an attorney managing large-value commercial transactions, including shipbuilding contracts and ship sales. Tony has been appointed Head of Commercial Strategies to Mitsui Ocean Cruises and is providing broad-based strategic and operational advice with respect to Mitsui’s expansion of its cruise line. His consulting company, Vero Nord, LLC, advises its cruise line and related industry clients how to improve business performance and mitigate risk. Tony is an Adjunct Professor and reaches leadership at Loyola Law School, Los Angeles, his Alma Mater.

Capt. Sanjay Kushwaha

General Manager

Bernhard Schulte Cruise Services – India

With over 30 years of experience in the maritime industry, I am a versatile and qualified marine professional currently leading the cruise ship management division at BSM Cruise Services in Mumbai, India. My extensive background as a Captain has provided me with in-depth knowledge of ship operations, maintenance, marine operations, port management systems, and safety procedures across various sectors. As General Manager, I oversee the technical and crewing operations and performance of the BSM Cruise Services India team, effectively managing relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders in the cruise industry. I am passionate about delivering high-quality, cost-effective services while ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations, with a focus on enhancing the reputation and growth of BSM Cruise Services. In addition, I engage in market analysis and business development activities, leveraging my extensive network and expertise to drive success in the cruise sector.

Wen Ciu Lee

Head of Asia Pacific & Indian Ocean

Intercruises Shoreside & Port Services

Wen is an expert in destination operations for the tourism industry, both in Europe and Asia, with exceptional knowledge of the cruise industry and the wider Tours & Activities sector. Wen’s travel career started when she joined Intercruises Shoreside & Port Services, the world leading cruise ground handler, in 2004, Between 2004 and 2016, Wen held a variety of operations roles, splitting her time between Barcelona and Singapore, working in various Asian destinations, including Malaysia, China, South Korea, Indonesia, Vietnam and Cambodia. In 2016, Wen took on one of the most senior operations roles at Intercruises, as Global Operations Manager, responsible for ensuring the operations quality for thousands of cruise operations every year in North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific. In 2021, Wen took on a new challenge becoming Head of Asia Pacific & Indian Ocean, overseeing operations, sales and customer service for customers in 23 countries spread across the Indian Ocean and Asia-Pacific region. Wen holds various degrees and qualifications, ranging from Languages and Psychology to Public Relations and Artificial Intelligence.

Bok Soon Leem

President & Secretary General

Korea International Cruise Institute & Asia Cruise Leaders Network

Dr. Leem, Bok Soon, as one of the leading experts in the world cruise industry, has accumulated outstanding achievements for the East Asia cruise industry.

Apart from the various careers like the Secretary General of the Asia Cruise Leaders Network (ACLN), the Vice President of the cruise industry committee in the World Tourism Cities Federation Hills Tourism Summit (WTCF), and the Policy Advisor for public and private sectors, she by herself established the Korea International Cruise Institute (KICI) and founded the Cruise Industry Review(CIR), the real cooperation platform in the Northeast cruise industry.

Dr Zinan Liu

Senior Vice President & Chairman

Royal Caribbean Cruises, Asia

Zinan Liu, Chairman of Royal Caribbean Cruises, Asia. Joined Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd in 2009, Dr. Liu was tasked to develop the team and business in China and Asia from scratch. Today, Royal Caribbean has become the most influential luxury cruise brand in China and Asia. And China has become the second largest market after the United States of Royal Caribbean. Dr. Liu has successfully deployed the Voyager Class, Quantum Class and Quantum Ultra Class, the largest and latest cruise ship with creative features in Asia into China, which was well respected by industry and drive the 10 years development of China cruise market. Dr. Liu has won “The Magnolia Award” which awarded by Shanghai government for the successful executives of international enterprise. Dr. Liu graduated from the Queen Mary College, University of London with doctor degree in Economics in 1992. Prior to joining Royal Caribbean, he has a various of career experience. From 1992to 1999, he worked in London Metropolitan University as a senior lecturer and engaged in economic research for 7 years. From 1999 to 2004, he worked in Crosby MTM as Vice President, and he was responsible for international companies’ strategic investment in China. During 2004 to 2009 he held executive positions in BTI to develop new format of business travelling with Jinjiang Group. Dr. Liu was a member of Royal Economic Society, Chairman of Chinese Economic Association-UK, Chairman of CLIA North Asia.

Alvin Materi

Director

Cruise Asia, by Destinations Asia

Alvin Materi is the Director of Cruise Asia by Destination Asia. Alvin has more than 30 years of personal involvement in the cruise industry, during which time he has held the position of Shore Excursion Manager for Royal Caribbean Cruises, as well as Senior Management roles in Vietnam, Hong Kong, New Zealand, and the United States. A Canadian national, Alvin works with key markets to identify new business opportunities and directs the Cruise Asia global sales and operational departments. Alvin also heads product development, port consulting and itinerary planning, and directs the ongoing long-term relationships for Cruise Asia by Destination Asia.

Oliviero Morelli

President, Japan, South-Korea, South East Asia, Cruise Division

MSC Group

Oliviero Morelli began his career in the port of Naples, Italy in 2001, as a 4th generation shipping agent in his family business. He joined MSC Naples in 2007 and was transferred to London, UK, where he was promoted to Product & Operation Director. In 2014, Oliviero became the President of MSC Cruises Japan and brought the first MSC Cruises ship to Japan in 2018, MSC Splendida, followed by MSC Bellissima in 2023. For this MSC Cruises Japan was awarded ‘Cruise of the Year’ by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT). During his time as President of MSC Cruises Japan, Oliviero also held the position of President of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Japan, from 2019-2021. Oliviero was appointed President Japan, South- Korea, Southeast Asia Cruise Division of MSC Group in October 2024.

Ravi Pavade

Director, Port Operations, Global Port Optimization

Holland America Line & Seabourn

Ravi Pavade is the Director of Port Operations, Global Port Optimization at Holland America Line & Seabourn, distinguished by his extensive expertise and influential impact on maritime operations. With a career spanning over two decades in the cruise industry, Ravi brings a wealth of knowledge and a steadfast commitment to enhancing port efficiency and operational excellence. In his pivotal role, Ravi is responsible for overseeing and optimizing port operations across the global network of Holland America Line and Seabourn. His innovative strategies and meticulous attention to detail ensure seamless port interactions, from scheduling and logistics to regulatory compliance and stakeholder coordination. Ravi's leadership has been instrumental in driving operational improvements and elevating the guest experience by ensuring timely and efficient port calls. Ravi's journey in the maritime sector began with a strong educational foundation and a passion for the intricacies of port operations. He is renowned for his collaborative approach, working closely with various departments, ports, local authorities, and industry partners to foster robust relationships and streamline processes. His forward-thinking vision and proactive problem-solving skills contribute to the overall effectiveness and sustainability of port operations. Throughout his tenure, Ravi has been recognized for his exceptional leadership, strategic acumen, and dedication to operational excellence. His contributions have not only optimized port operations but have also set new standards within the industry. Ravi's expertise is frequently sought after in industry forums and conferences, where he shares insights and best practices with peers and stakeholders. As the Director of Port Operations, Ravi Pavade continues to play a crucial role in the success and growth of Holland America Line and Seabourn, driving innovation and efficiency across their global port operations and ensuring outstanding experiences for their guests.

Marcus Puttich

Director, Destinations

TUI Cruises

Marcus Puttich, a certified ship agent by the Hamburg Chamber of Commerce, started his career in the port agency department of Biehl & Company in the ports of Houston and New York. Before joining TUI Cruises in January 2014, Marcus received Bachelor of Arts degree in Cruise Industry Management from the Bremerhaven University of Applied Sciences and graduated with a Master of Science with Distinction in Maritime Operations from the Liverpool John Moores University. Marcus currently holds the position of Senior Head of Port Management & Operations at TUI Cruises and is in charge for worldwide port services for the cruise brands Mein Schiff and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. His responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the port and ground agency selection, the governmental, economic and operational aspects for all ports of call, as well as strategic decision-making in the port & ground operations of TUI Cruises.

Doug Prothero

CEO

Lucida Luxury Maritime

Douglas Prothero is a visionary leader who led the creation of the branded ultra-luxury cruise sector. As the Founder and CEO of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, he spearheaded the creation of exclusive super yachts and curated a lifestyle product that transcends ordinary travel experiences. He has been an executive in the maritime industry for over 30 years. He recently founded Lucida Luxury Maritime to advise and create new ventures in the luxury maritime sector and has a particular interest in the opportunities that the APAC region presents for the development of niche luxury cruising. Prior to founding RCYC he was Partner at a boutique investment bank specializing in maritime sector advisory and related financing with and for shipowners, private equity and family offices. He has also held executive roles in various SME maritime hospitality businesses, where he led product design, strategic planning, shipbuilding, and operational functions. Doug is the Past Chairman of the Nobel Peace Prize nominated Sail Training International. A global charity committed to providing opportunities in the maritime world for under privileged youth.

Joost van Ree

Group Director Cruise & Yachts

Ocean Technologies Group

Joost van Ree brings years of experience in the cruise industry to fruition in his current role, as Group Director Cruise & Yachts at Ocean Technologies Group. After ending his career at sea, Joost worked in higher management and Director positions at companies such as Norfolkline and the Rotterdam Pilot Association. In 2016 he co-founded Simwave, a state-of-the-art Simulator Center situated in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. 5 years ago, Joost joined CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) as Director, Partner Relations. He held this position until he joined OTG in January 2022. With good humor, professional skills, in-depth knowledge and a positive attitude, Joost knows how to inspire and motivate his network, partners and other stakeholders in the global cruise industry.

Javier Rodriguez Sanchez

Regional Director, West Med & Asia & General Manager

Global Ports Holding Plc & Barcelona Cruise Port

Mr. Javier Rodriguez Sanchez has been appointed GPH Regional Director of West Med & Asia in 2019. He also serves as General Manager of Barcelona Cruise Port since June 2017. Previously Mr. Rodriguez was the Port Ground, Shorex & Cruise Operations Director in Pullmantur Cruises from December 2010 until June 2017. He has also worked in many roles within the shipping industry such as Maersk Line for over 3 years, port agency business and as a deck officer on board Trasmediterranea. Mr. Rodriguez holds a Bachelor Degree in Nautical Studies from the Nautical School of Santander and an E-MBA from EAE Business School.

Ana Karina Santini

Associate Vice President, International Destination Development

Royal Caribbean Group

Ana Karina Santini was born in Argentina and is now based in Italy. She pursued her undergraduate in Political Science & International Relations from the University of Córdoba (Argentina), and obtained a Masters in International Cooperation from the University of Bologna (Italy), supplementing these two with studies at the European Commission DG1 International Cooperation (Brussels) and a second degree in Political Science with an economics focus at the University of Genoa (Italy). She started her carrier in the industry when she joined MedCruise as Secretary General in 1997. After 6 years she opened her own firm, providing consultancy activities to ports, cruise terminal companies, industry exhibition and congress organizers, local governmental bodies and tourism boards, shipping and tour agencies in the cruise sector in the Mediterranean and Latin America Regions. In 2012, Karina joined RCG following PR and Communications, theme cruises and new products. Over time she has assumed responsibilities as an operating company Board of Directors member in RCG’s port companies and developing new infrastructural port projects. She now covers International Destination Development, embracing EMEA and APAC regions.

Jianfeng Tong

General Manager

Shanghai Blue Dream International Cruise Co.

Mr. Jianfeng Tong is the General Manager Shanghai Blue Dream International Cruise Co., LTD, responsible for commercial operation and management. Mr Tong has been engaged in International Cruise Industry for many years with management experience. Before joining Blue Dream, Mr Tong previously served as the Deputy General Manager of Royal Caribbean Cruise Shipping Services (China) Co., LTD. Mr Tong holds a master degree, EMBA of China Europe International Business School. He was named in the innagural "20 Under 40" award by Seatrade for outstanding talent in the global cruise industry.

Dr. Paulo Tugbang

Director for Product and Market Development

Philippines Department of Tourism

Paulo is a career executive and a health policy professional with years of experience in health governance, including health policy development, and planning, program management, and crisis management, and health tourism. Originally from the Philippine Department of Health as a health policymaker, Paulo, a physician by profession, has served the Department of Tourism and the Philippine tourism industry for over a year since 2021, spearheading the growth and development of Medical Travel and Wellness Tourism as a primary tourism product for the Philippines. Paulo currently supervises the development six (7) of the ten (10) priority tourism products [Dive and Marine Sports, Nature-based and Adventure, Education, Cruise, Culture (Food and Gastronomy, Creative Arts, Faith and Pilgrimage), Health, and Film] and six (12) opportunity market clusters for the Philippines.

Filippos Venetopoulos

CEO

Variety Cruises

Born in Athens - 3rd generation in a lineage of ship builders - Filippos Venetopoulos graduated from New York University’s Business School with distinctions. Filippos embraced his family’s cruise line heritage while staying faithful to his passion for competitive sports; a testament to his Greek roots. Receiving the finalist title in Greece at the age of 16 for tennis didn’t put an end to his love for team-work and his collaborative spirit, evident throughout his career's trajectory. Following his valuable work experience as a Junior Financial Analyst at Piraeus Bank in London, he took on the role of Global VP of Sales and Marketing for Variety Cruises, before deciding to spread his wings in Australia at the world’s leading adventure travel organization Intrepid Travel. During his tenure at Intrepid after having successfully launched Peregrine’s adventure cruise product, he quickly rose as the General Manager of all Marine Operations for the group. During that time through participation in numerous courses and meditation practices, Filippos additionally gained valuable insight into the art of self-improvement and team-building, which carries through his inviting leadership style. The culmination of his experiences led to him taking over the role of the CEO at his family business VARIETY CRUISES in the midst of the pandemic, supporting the organization through the company’s biggest crisis since 1949. Filippos’ goal is to transform the company in a sustainable 360º community-building experiences at Sea, with fun and authenticity at heart. The culmination of the above is evident in the formation of VARIETY CARES a non-profit foundation that stands for the organization’s pledge for sustainability and diversity. In a continued effort for transparency and growth Variety Cruises has joined consulting company Deloite in developing the foundation for a bright future as the company sails through its 3rd Generation. Filippos has been an advocate for human rights since 2010, is fluent in German, English, and Greek, and his plans for the future involve further narrowing the gap between business growth opportunities and social impact initiatives.

Cherece Vina

AVP Talent Acquisition

Royal Caribbean Group

Cherece has led an impressive career in Talent Acquisition with 25 years of experience working in the hospitality industry. She joined Royal Caribbean Group (RCG) in 2023 and serves as the AVP of Talent Acquisition. Cherece leads a global team responsible for the attraction, recruiting, and hiring of crew members for the company’s 68 ships and private destinations. In her role, she’s developed the shipboard recruitment and talent attraction strategy. Prior to joining Royal Caribbean Group, Cherece worked in the gaming industry at Caesars Entertainment as their Enterprise VP of Talent Acquisition Strategy. She was the driving force behind their company’s veteran hiring initiative and early talent programs designed to build pipelines centered in diversity. Throughout her career in hospitality she’s recruited and hired for hotel and casino grand openings and celebrity chef restaurants such as Gordon Ramsay’s Hell’s Kitchen, Giada, and Nobu. Cherece is not only dedicated to energizing and transforming talent acquisition, but also champions her team to be empowered by a commitment to excellence. Cherece attributes her success to a “people first” leadership style and belief that through partnership and connection we can accomplish more. Influenced by her operational experience Cherece encourages her team to collaborate, leverage data, and draw from business insights to challenge inefficiencies and enhance operational effectiveness. In the next stage of her career Cherece aspires to create a legacy of meaningful work through unified purpose and a better by design approach rooted in human connection. When Cherece is not welcoming new team members and transforming the talent space, Cherece loves spending time with her family, trying new foods, traveling the world, and diving into a good book.

Eric Visser

Senior Director Maritime Operations and People

Holland America Line

Eric Visser works as Sr. Director, Maritime Operations People Team for Holland America Line and Seabourn Cruise Lines. Having an extensive educational background, Eric began his journey in the industry at the College of Marine Engineering in Zwolle, working towards a Class 3 Marine Engineering license. After graduating, he continued his education at the Maritime University of Amsterdam where he earned Class 1 licenses in Marine Engineering and Chief Officer/Captain. During his education, Eric sailed as a cadet with Shell Tankers. More recently, Eric attended the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business and completed the Marine Surveyor Program with Lloyds. After graduating, Eric worked a short contract as a Deck Officer with Pot Scheepvaart, joining Holland America Line shortly after. Eric worked as a Staff Chief Engineer on various vessels in the fleet. His next role was on the Shore Team as a Planning Manager for Holland America Line and Windstar Cruises. During his time with the company, Eric worked through various shoreside ranks, which include overseeing global deck and technical recruitment, regulatory compliance and training, collective bargaining agreements for Holland America Group, as well as representing Holland America Group at various global programs, such as CSMART and HR committees. Eric also worked as the Director of Vessel Engineering and Maintenance for Washington State Ferries, overseeing the fleet technical aspects, the largest U.S. public owned shipyard and logistics and as Director Maritime Operations for a start-up feeder company. Eric grew up in Garderen, The Netherlands. He now lives on Bainbridge Island, WA with his family. Outside of work, Eric enjoys playing ice hockey, supporting the Seattle Kraken, cooking, and spending time outdoors fishing and boating.

Michael Wiesner

Director of Training

Oceanic Hospitality Training Centre

Michael Wiesner has been the Director of Training for Oceanic since 2011 and he is overseeing and developing trainings and career development plans for catering professionals globally, ashore and on-board vessels. He specializes in developing healthy balanced food menus and recipes.
Before coming to the training profession, Michael worked as Executive Chef on board cruise vessels.
Originally from Hamburg, Michael is presently based in Manila, overseeing the operations of the Oceanic Training Centre, but he is also travelling globally to the other Oceanic training locations

Richard Wu

Director

International Cruise Council Taiwan (ICCT)

Mr Richard Wu is the Director of the International Cruises Council Taiwan and the Convener for HR Training and Development. Recently retired from Taiwan’s Hospitality and Tourism University, he has dedicated his career to advancing the cruise industry, with a focus on Human Resource Training and Development (HRTD). As a pioneering leader, he successfully bridged academia and the cruise industry through initiatives like the “Junior Student Internship” and “Senior Direct Employment” projects, paving the way for student internships and direct job placements.

Looking ahead, he is committed to opening new pathways for talented young people in Taiwan to join the international cruise industry. Above all, he is a happy and contented man who finds fulfillment in fostering the next generation of cruise professionals.

Jasem Zaiton

Director

Zaiton Destinations

Jasem Zaiton is a seasoned cruise industry expert with over 25 years of experience in destination management services. As the co-chair of ZAITON Destinations Pvt. Limited in India and ZAITON LLE, he provides top-tier cruise consultancy to the UAE emirates of Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah. Recently, he concluded a significant project with the GAC Group, where he served as a business development consultant and later as Group Marketing Manager, focusing on the cruise vertical. Previously, Jasem led the cruise sector at dnata, a member of the Emirates Group, where he spearheaded a dedicated cruise department that delivered shore excursions and ground handling services to over one million cruise passengers in the region over a five-year period. His efforts have been instrumental in establishing Dubai and the surrounding region as a prominent cruising arena.

The 2024 Conference Programme

Anchored by the theme 'Advancing Asia's Cruise Future,' the Seatrade Cruise Asia Conference provided tangible ways to advance in the regional market and much more.