BUD Darr has been appointed Global President & Chief Executive of Cruise Lines International Association, returning to CLIA following a seven-and-a-half year stint with MSC Group.
The accomplished global maritime leader most recently served as MSC’s Executive Vice President, Maritime Policy & Government Affairs, having previously led CLIA’s maritime technical and regulatory affairs.
He will now succeed Kelly Craighead in the top job, with Chair Jason Liberty hailing Darr’s guidance and devotion to the cruise sector.
“Bud’s proven leadership and dedication to advancing the cruise industry’s policies and environmental leadership practices make him the ideal candidate to lead us into a new era of growth and innovation,” Liberty said.
“His extensive background and understanding of the maritime industry will be invaluable assets to CLIA as we set even higher benchmarks for success, and I look forward to working with him to drive our collective mission.”
Darr will now lead the next phase of CLIA’s global strategy, at an important time for the industry, as it grows toward its 2050 sustainability targets.
“I am thrilled to be returning to CLIA, and I am grateful for the confidence that the Global Executive Committee and CLIA member lines have placed in me,” he said.
“With the dynamic changes and opportunities ahead, this industry is poised to set new pathways and raise the bar for innovation and sustainability.
“I am eager to harness our collective expertise to propel us toward an even brighter future…together, we will navigate the global complexities and reach significant milestones.”
