In an update to travel advisors, Celebrity Cruises announced that travel industry veteran Katina Athanasiou has been promoted to senior vice president, sales and services for the Americas. This follows the recent announcement by long-time sales executive Dondra Ritzenthaler that she would retire after spending 20 years with the company.
Celebrity's Laura Hodges Bethge, the line's president, told the trade community in the update: "I am pleased to share that Katina Athanasiou has been named our new senior vice president, sales and services for the Americas, driving the brand’s sales strategy and trade support and services in this region. She assumes the role today, reporting directly to me. Katina joined us last December as our vice president, sales, for the Americas, bringing two decades of industry sales experience to the brand."
Athanasiou is well known to many advisors from her past service at major cruise industry brands. Prior to arriving at Celebrity, she served as senior vice president of sales for ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises. In addition, she also served as chief sales officer for Norwegian Cruise Line, plus had other sales management roles for other major brands.
Bethge noted that Athanasiou is a graduate of Florida State University, with a degree in business communications. Another professional tidbit? The newly promoted sales leader is a member of CHIEF, a private network focused on connecting and supporting women executive leaders.
"Katina has quickly proven herself to be a great sales leader bringing a passion for our guests, excellent relationships with our trade partners, and deep industry insights to drive our trade business," said Bethge. "Her energy and expertise will be a great asset to us as our fleet grows and our brand evolves."
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