O’Sullivan out, Lloyd in as NZCA CEO

NEW Zealand Cruise Association (NZCA) Chief Executive Officer Kevin O’Sullivan has retired, with Chair Jacqui Lloyd (pictured) named to the position.

O’Sullivan will leave at the end of Jun, following a handover period, which will see Lloyd start her new position on 01 Jun.

She will continue as Chair until she starts her new role, with her replacement to be announced in due course.

Her most recent role was Destination Marlborough General Manager.

O’Sullivan has been NZCA’s Chief Executive for the last four-and-a-half years, having also served on the board for 15 years, while holding the role of Environment Southland Regional Harbourmaster.

Both Chief Execs are attending Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami from 27-30 Mar.

Former Chair Debbie Summers said O’Sullivan will be missed immensely by all in the industry.

“He has worked tirelessly and in particular, throughout our battle to restart these past years,” Summers said.

“As Chair I particularly appreciated Kevin’s relentless positivity and sheer determination as he liaised and negotiated with the many stakeholders required to enable the sector’s recovery postCOVID.

“NZ cruise is in a better place for all his efforts.”

With more than 20 years of tourism, cruise, and senior management experience, Deputy Chair Tansy Tompkins said Lloyd is the perfect person to lead NZCA through the next phase of the sector’s recovery.

“Jacqui’s extensive tourism background, senior leadership experience and relationship skills will help NZCA to further develop strategic alliances, unite our sector and expand our presence on the world stage as the cruise industry rebounds,” she said.