MIAMI — Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced John Chernesky as its new Senior Vice President of Sales for North America.
Chernesky, who will take over the reins from Todd Hamilton, will be responsible for the brand’s overall trade sales strategy across Canada and the U.S., under the leadership of newly appointed NCL President David Herrera.
“We are thrilled to welcome John to the NCL family and to infuse his dynamic energy into our business,” said Herrera. “His reputation of taking an innovative approach to fostering and strengthening relationships with travel partners equally aligns to our ‘Partners First’ philosophy, and we look forward to him continuing our legacy of commitment to this community which is critical to our overall success.”
Chernesky’s 30-year career spans various leadership roles across the cruise industry, from sales and trade marketing to hotel operations, onboard revenue, business development, newbuild design development and passenger programs.
In his new role, Chernesky will reinforce NCL’s ‘Partners First’ philosophy of investing in and supporting the travel partner community through educational tools, marketing support and access to programs and opportunities that empower travel advisors to maximize their earning potential.
“Norwegian Cruise Line has a history of delivering exceptional experiences and putting partners first,” said Chernesky. “I am a huge advocate for the trade community, who play such a critical role in the success of this industry that I Love and am continuously inspired by the passion they bring to what they do. I am thrilled to be back in the game and to join the incredible and dedicated team at NCL.”
Last year, NCL made history as the first major contemporary cruise company to pay commission on non-commissionable fares. According to NCL, an “outstanding” number of advisors submitted their marketing plans in order to take part in the program.
Moreover, NCL recently updated its commission tier structure, offering advisors the opportunity to advance commission tiers more quickly based on net bookings or booked revenue.
Todd Hamilton, who previously held the role of Senior VP of Sales, North America, has transitioned to Senior Vice President of New Ventures at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH), the parent company for the Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands. In his new role, Hamilton will be responsible for new strategic business developments.
