Former Celebrity Cruises vice president and managing director EMEA Jo Rzymowska has joined Hays Travel as a non-executive director.

It will be Rzymowska’s first role since she stepped down from Celebrity Cruises in July 2023, intending to apply her years of experience to support businesses and individuals.

Hays Travel owner and chair Dame Irene Hays said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Jo to our Hays Travel board as a non-executive director, where she will contribute and challenge in equal measure areas of our business that go way beyond the expected subjects of cruise, and inclusion, to make the most of our future growth plans.”

Rzymowska, who will take up her new role on 1 November 2023, began her cruise career in 2005 as UK and Ireland sales and marketing director for Royal Caribbean Group.

She joined Celebrity Cruises in 2015 as UK & Ireland VP and MD, before being tasked with overseeing all of the EMEA region for the brand in 2019.

Ex-Celebrity Cruises boss Rzymowska to take up new role this week

Rzymowska said: “Hays Travel stands for so many things I admire and respect, with a vision at its core that connects profitability with purpose, that puts the customer first whilst benefiting local communities.

“As a passionate advocate for developing talent, I am impressed by Hays Travel’s drive to empower its employees, encouraging greater confidence and allowing better representation at every level of the business.”

She continued: “I’m looking forward to working with Irene and the Hays Travel board offering my support, advice and guidance as the business continues to grow and develop.”