Ultra-luxury Silversea Cruises today announced two new appointments to its board of directors: Roberto Martinoli and Jay Witzel.
Enzo Visone, executive chairman of Silversea, released the following statement:
At the beginning of 2010 Silversea began a process to strengthen its board of directors with the objective of being aligned with the requirements of structured and professional corporate governance seen today in most major companies of international repute.
Today we are pleased to announce further additions to our board which further contribute to this initial objective. Effective November 1, 2010, Silversea welcomes two illustrious figures: Roberto Martinoli and Jay Witzel.
Roberto Martinoli, an Italian, is a naval architect and marine engineer by training, and is considered today as one of the major experts within the cruise industry, in particular in the field of fleet operations. Today he is at the helm of a major Italian ferry company, Grandi Navi Veloci, and was previously president of Norwegian Cruise Line based in Miami. He has also held senior positions within the Carnival Group.
Jay Witzel, an American, has had a successful career in the hotel and cruise industries, with his major positions having been president and CEO of both Carlson Hotels Worldwide and Carlson Cruises, the previous owner of Regent Seven Seas Cruises. He began his career with Hyatt Hotels and his experience gained throughout his career in the hospitality industry is unrivaled.
The remaining members of the board remain unchanged, bringing the total to five, with Giorgio Scelsi, Enzo Visone and of course Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, chairman of Silversea Cruise Group, owning entity of Silversea Cruise Holding and representative of the ultimate owners, the Lefebvre family trusts.
These nominations not only underline the long-term commitment that Manfredi Lefebvre has towards Silversea and the cruise industry, but also enhances the ability for Silversea to achieve its ambitions aimed at continuing growth and to further enhance its position as leader in the ultra-luxury segment of our exciting cruise industry.
