GENOVA — Costa Cruises is looking to continue its path of growth and organizational evolution with a new commercial structure in the North America market.

After leading Costa’s sales team in North America for more than 40 years, Ruben Perez, veteran of the Costa brand in the U.S., will leave his role as general manager, Costa Cruises North America.

Mario Zanetti, President, Costa Cruises, said: “We are sincerely grateful to Ruben for his recognized contribution to the Costa brand in the U.S over the years and for his long contribution to the whole Costa organization. His managerial skills have been pivotal to lead the North American team over the past years.”

For his part, Perez said: “I am proud of the significant achievements we have accomplished together, and I am sure Costa will continue in providing great cruising experiences to its American guests and valuable travel partners.”

In a move that took effect March 1, the North America market will be served through a new sales organization led by Erik Jaramillo, who was promoted to Head of Sales, Costa North America.

In this role, Jaramillo will oversee strategic and national accounts, charter and incentives, and field sales, reporting to Dario Rustico, general manager, North & South America.

Meanwhile the Costa North America sales department will be reinforced with the introduction of Yeniss Palacio, Priscilla Reyes and Becky Tate, who join Costa Cruises in the role of BDMs, reporting to Jaramillo.

Of interest for the Canadian travel industry, Reyes will be responsible for the West Coast and Canada. She brings nearly 20 years of sales and client services experience to Costa.