MSC Cruises (USA), Inc. announced the hiring of Roy Grimsland as vice president of sales, and promotion of Gail Nicolaus to vice president of marketing, public relations, and customer service, effective on Jan. 10.

Both newly-created positions report to Richard E. Sasso, North American president and chief-executive-officer, and Nicola Gargiulo, executive vice president.

According to Sasso, the changes were essential to continue to position MSC Cruises for the future. “As we look towards 2011 and beyond, sales and marketing and travel agent partners will be the backbone of our efforts to support MSC’s projected growth,” said Sasso.

Grimsland comes to MSC with more than 30 years’ experience in sales and marketing management experience in the travel industry with an emphasis on the cruise and hotel sectors. Recognized for innovative sales and marketing successes and leadership in all facets of national and international sales management, Roy is a polished professional who has documented accomplishments working with world class travel brands.

He has held senior sales and marketing positions with Paul Gauguin Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Cruise Lines and Capella Hotels. During his career, Roy was instrumental in the successful introduction and launch of Regent Seven Seas Cruise (formerly Radisson Seven Seas) and Capella Hotels to the retail, wholesale and MICE travel sales channels within the United States.

Gail Nicolaus assumes the role as vice president of marketing, public relations, and customer service, and will continue to manage all of the marketing efforts for the US office as she has done the past seven years.