What's Happening?
Windstar Cruises has announced the appointment of Lauren Kieny as the new Central U.S. regional sales manager. Kieny brings over a decade of experience in luxury travel and cruising, having previously held leadership roles at SeaDream Yacht Club, American Queen Voyages, Globus family of brands, and Oceania Cruises. Her most recent position was as director of sales for the Midwest at SeaDream Yacht Club. In her new role, Kieny will oversee sales efforts across 12 states, including Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, and Wisconsin. She will work closely with travel advisors on account management, sales planning, promotional initiatives, and events, while also conducting training sessions, webinars, and familiarization trips to help advisors experience Windstar's unique style of cruising.
Why It's Important?
The appointment of Lauren Kieny is significant for Windstar Cruises as it strengthens their commitment to travel advisor partnerships, which are crucial for expanding their market presence in the Central U.S. region. Kieny's extensive experience in the luxury travel sector and her understanding of travel advisors' needs will likely enhance Windstar's sales strategies and promotional efforts. This move is expected to boost Windstar's visibility and competitiveness in the boutique cruise market, especially as the company plans to expand its fleet with two new ships, Star Seeker and Star Explorer, in the coming years. The focus on personalized service and immersive itineraries aligns with current consumer trends favoring unique and intimate travel experiences.
What's Next?
Lauren Kieny will begin her role by engaging with travel advisors through various initiatives, including training sessions and webinars. Her efforts will be aimed at increasing Windstar's market share in the Central U.S. region. As Windstar expands its fleet, Kieny's role will be pivotal in promoting new destinations and experiences offered by the upcoming ships. The company anticipates that her leadership will drive growth and strengthen relationships with travel advisors, ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Beyond the Headlines
Windstar Cruises' expansion and strategic appointments reflect broader trends in the cruise industry, where personalized and boutique experiences are increasingly in demand. The focus on small-ship cruising offers a unique selling point in a competitive market dominated by larger cruise lines. Kieny's appointment also highlights the importance of regional sales strategies in the travel industry, where local expertise and relationships can significantly impact business success.
