Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has revealed that Cindy D’Aoust, president and CEO, will leave her role at the end of this year to focus on family priorities.

D’Aoust will remain in her role until a successor is identified and will help oversee the transition of a new leader. CLIA’s Global Executive Committee is now developing a transition plan as it seeks a replacement.

“CLIA has been fortunate to have Cindy at the helm for the last two years but we respect her decision to focus on her family and wish her all the best,” said Arnold Donald, global chair, CLIA and president and CEO, Carnival Corporation & plc.

D’Aoust was appointed permanent chief executive and president in 2016.

CLIA has retained the services of executive search firm Russell Reynolds Associates to lead the search for a new president and CEO.