Oceania Cruises has recently announced the appointment of Brennan Quesnele as their new senior vice president of sales, effective February 24. This significant move comes amidst a transitional phase for the cruise line, following the departure of former senior vice president Nikki Upshaw, who left her position in January. Quesnele’s appointment indicates the company’s effort to bolster its sales strategy and strengthen partnerships within the competitive cruise industry.
Brennan Quesnele brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having previously served as the vice president of strategic and national accounts at Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). His transition to Oceania indicates a strategic realignment within the company’s upper-premium segment, where Quesnele will be responsible for overseeing comprehensive sales strategies globally. He is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing the line’s presence in various trade sales channels, catering to an evolving market that demands innovative approaches and personalized travel experiences.
Prior to his tenure at NCL, Quesnele had an impactful career at Gogo Vacations, a vacation packaging service that unfortunately ceased operations last year. His experience spans different aspects of the travel industry, equipping him with unique insights that are expected to benefit Oceania as it navigates the challenges of a post-pandemic travel environment.
In his new role, Quesnele will focus on maximizing growth opportunities and enhancing the cruise line’s partnerships with travel advisors and agencies. The organizational structure under his leadership will ensure that heads of field sales, strategic accounts, and international sales report directly to him. This streamlined hierarchy is designed to promote efficiency and agility in responding to market demands.
Reporting directly to Frank A. Del Rio, the president of Oceania, Quesnele is expected to implement progressive strategies that align with the company’s overall vision. The objective is not only to capture a larger market share but also to foster lasting relationships with partners—a crucial factor in sustaining long-term success in the competitive travel industry.
The appointment of Brennan Quesnele is part of Oceania’s broader strategical adjustments, which also include the return of Jason Montague to Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, where he will oversee both Oceania and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Montague’s experience in the industry can potentially provide additional depth to Qtuesnele’s strategies, fostering a cohesive approach across various brands within the holdings.
Overall, Oceania Cruises’ recent leadership changes signal a proactive endeavor to navigate the recovery landscape of the cruise sector. With Quesnele at the helm of sales, the cruise line is poised to strengthen its foothold as a preferred choice for travelers seeking upper-premium experiences, while adapting to a shifting market landscape that demands innovation and flexibility.