Leanna Lakes has been appointed to the newly created role of technical and marine operations director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, the company said in a press release.

She will oversee the captains, quality and resource and port operations, and the management of the company’s technical colleagues in Norway.

Fred. Olsen added that the position has been created to provide strategic and commercial leadership across fleet operations, improving collaboration across onboard, shoreside and technical teams.

Samantha Stimpson, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines CEO, said: “I’m really pleased to announce Leanna’s appointment and welcome her to our Senior Leadership Team. Leanna joins Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines as a Master Mariner with more than 25 years of senior maritime operational experience, underpinned by many years at sea.

“Her practical insight, technical knowledge and first‑hand understanding of shipping operations will be invaluable as we continue to develop, strengthen and evolve as a business.”

Lakes has held senior roles across cruise and passenger shipping, safety and executive leadership within the UK maritime sector, as well as non-executive and advisory appointments, including with the Merchant Navy Training Board and the UK Chamber of Shipping.

“It’s an absolute privilege to Join Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines and I am delighted to join Sam and the rest of the team at such an exciting time,” noted Lakes.

“The business has a rich maritime history and a uniquely tailored cruising experience for its guests, and I am looking forward to getting aboard the ships to meet the crew and understand more about how things work at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.”