John Chernesky has been appointed to the role of vice president, North America Sales for Princess Cruises and Cunard Line, effective June 1. 

The Princess Cruises veteran succeeds Brian O’Connor who was recently appointed vice president, public relations for the cruise line. In his new role, Chernesky will lead the field sales team representing both lines to professional travel retailers throughout the United States and Canada.   Chernesky, who has been with Princess Cruises for more than 22 years, most recently served as vice president, onboard revenue and business development for the Holland America Group, where he supported Princess Cruises, Holland America Line and Seabourn.

In this position, he was responsible for product development, strategic analysis and creating growth opportunities for spa, fine arts, casino photography, media production, shipboard communications technology and branded credit cards.   

“John brings an accomplished depth of valuable experience in revenue management, business development and analysis, as well as strategic marketing partnerships to his new role,” said Gordon Ho, senior vice president of global marketing and North America sales.

“Additionally, our sales team and the travel professionals community will benefit greatly from his exceptional product knowledge and passion for the brand which has been demonstrated throughout his long tenure in various key roles.”  

Ho added that a key part of Chernesky’s role will be to provide strategic marketing guidance to help retailers increase their cruise sales with Princess and Cunard.  

“I look forward to working with travel retailers across North America to help them to grow their business with our two world-class brands,” said Chernesky. “Travel professionals play a key role in our company’s success and I am committed to their success as well.”  

From 2009-2013, Chernesky served as director, onboard revenue and product development. Since joining Princess Cruises in 1992, he has also served in the hotel services department, helped manage the design development of numerous new-builds and served as director, passenger programs overseeing the youth and teen programs, onboard media and enrichment programs.  

He holds a B.S. degree in business administration (marketing) from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, and completed an executive leadership program at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management.