The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection has named Tim Klauda as senior vice president, customer experience, effective March 30, 2026.  

Working in a newly created role, he will lead the evolution of the guest experience across the fleet, reporting to Ernesto Fara, president and CEO. 

According to a press release, Klauda brings more than two decades of leadership positions at the intersection of product, design and guest experience. 

Most recently, he served as vice president of global products at McDonald’s, working at advancing crew experience platforms and operational tools for improving service delivery. 

Previously, he held senior leadership roles at Royal Caribbean International and Royal Caribbean Group on initiatives including the development of next-generation ships and the launch of digital platforms and guest experiences. 

Earlier in his career, he also held creative leadership roles working for and with the likes of Disney Parks & Resorts, Converse, Nike, Morgans Hotel Group, Starbucks, Dakine and Entertainment Weekly.