Cruise Lines International Association appointed Charles 'Bud' Darr as president/CEO, joining from MSC Group.
Darr will take the CLIA helm Feb. 3, succeeding Kelly Craighead, who earlier announced her plan to leave at year's end.
Previously led technical/regulatory affairs
Darr returns to CLIA, having previously served as SVP technical and regulatory affairs from 2010 to 2017. Since then, he's been based in Geneva as EVP maritime policy and government affairs for MSC Group.
Before his earlier CLIA stint, Darr held positions in the US Coast Guard, including deputy chief of maritime & international law, and he has served in the US Navy, Merchant Marine and USCG.
Proven leadership and dedication
'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,' CLIA Chairman Jason 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 joins at a pivotal time as the cruise industry works toward the 2050 decarbonization targets.