Prestige Cruise Holdings (PCH), the parent corporation of Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, has announced the appointment of Kunal S. Kamlani as president and chief operating officer, effective immediately. The addition of Kamlani follows the recent promotion of Oceania Cruises’ co-founder and long-time president, Bob Binder, to vice chairman of PCH as the company continues its international growth.
Kamlani, 38, will assume responsibility for the strategic marketing, sales, e-commerce, public relations, promotions and procurement for both brands. He rejoins PCH from Bank of America/Merrill Lynch, where he served as head of the multi-billion dollar Global Investment Solutions division with approximately 1,000 employees worldwide. Prior to that, Kamlani was the chief financial officer for PCH. His past experiences also include serving as the chief operating officer of Smith Barney and vice president of corporate development for Starwood Hotels & Resorts.
“I am thrilled to welcome Kunal back to PCH where we will benefit tremendously from his experience and passion for excellence,” stated PCH Chairman & CEO Frank Del Rio. “Kunal is a seasoned leader, with over 15 years in the financial services and hospitality industries. I have great confidence in his ability to execute as we position the company for the future,” Del Rio added.
“PCH’s strategy has never been more compelling,” said Kamlani. “There is a unique opportunity here to further differentiate the guest experience by leveraging both the power of these brands and the innovative thinking that is the hallmark of the PCH culture. I am delighted to be a part of this exciting growth story.”
Bruce J. Himelstein, president of Oceania Cruises, and Mark Conroy, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises, as well as Ben Wolber, vice president of fleet purchasing for PCH, will report to Kamlani.
Kamlani earned his MBA from Columbia University and a bachelor’s degree in Economics and Political Science from Colgate University. He is married with two children and resides in South Florida.
