Cunard has announced the appointment of Katie McAlister as president. 

McAlister will join the line in August after a 20-year career with TUI, where she is currently chief marketing officer, UK and Ireland.  

Carnival UK president Sture Myrmell said: “We are delighted to have someone of Katie’s calibre join Cunard at this vital time of expansion.  

“Her commercial and operational experience as well as digital transformation expertise and strategic oversight will build on the current team’s exceptional work, to ensure that Cunard’s brand and growth opportunities are maximised as we look forward to the introduction of Queen Anne next year.”

‘Unrivalled opportunity’ to join Cunard

McAlister added: “This was an unrivalled opportunity to join an iconic travel company at a key point in its history.

“I am so looking forward to joining the team as it widens its appeal and expands its guest base while retaining its renowned luxury, signature touches.” 

This week (3 May), Cunard held a float out ceremony for new ship Queen Anne at the Fincantieri Marghera shipyard in Venice, Italy.

When it enters service in May 2024, Queen Anne will join Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth in the fleet.

It will be the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four ships in simultaneous service.