Riviera Travel River Cruises has named Donna Kurtz as MICE sales director of North America.

In this newly created position, Kurtz will focus on charter, incentive and group travel initiatives, supporting the brand’s North American expansion, according to a company statement.

She will work directly with President of North America Stuart Milan to implement streamlined strategies and foster relationships with travel advisors and the MICE market.

“We are thrilled to welcome Donna to the team as we prepare for another successful year supporting our North American partners,” said Milan.

“Donna takes a dynamic approach to creating meaningful relationships and her proven record of success in the MICE segment, specifically, will elevate our impact as we strive to be an innovator across all lines of our business.”

Kurtz has more than three decades of cruise industry experience, having previously worked as director of charter and incentive sales at Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Emerald Waterways.

There, she oversaw the charter and sales division from inception to more than $40 million in revenue.

She has also worked closely with brands such as Paul Gauguin Cruises and Windstar Cruises, developing incentive and international sales initiatives for over two decades.

“Riviera Travel River Cruises offers a product and sales structure that truly stands out, with the brand consistently finding new and innovative ways to support groups,” noted Kurtz.

“I look forward to collaborating with the team to strengthen our partnerships, continuing to build on the impressive surge Riviera has made in North America’s leisure travel market over the last two years.”

Riviera added that Kurtz has built an exceptional reputation for driving revenue growth, developing long-term client relationships and creating successful charter and MICE programs for some of the industry’s most recognized brands.