Head of sales for MSC Cruises UK and Ireland Janet Parton has taken the decision to leave the company after two years.

Parton, who will depart at the end of August, said: “I have really enjoyed my time with MSC Cruises and am immensely proud of the results we have achieved from the UK marketplace. I will be leaving the business in a strong position as they continue with their ambitious growth plans in the UK.”

Managing director for MSC Cruises UK and Ireland Antonio Paradiso said: “Janet has done a fantastic job in growing sales for MSC Cruises and leaves the brand well positioned for its next growth phase. I wish to thank Janet for her contribution to the business during her time with the company and for all the support she has given me since my move to the UK. I wish her all the best for the future.”

Royal Caribbean International’s head of sales Steve Williams is set to join the company as the newly-created role of director of sales for MSC Cruises’ UK and Irish operations. Williams will start his role later this year and will manage the existing sales team and account managers whilst reporting into managing director Antonio Paradiso.

Speaking about the appointment, Williams said: “I am incredibly proud to have worked for Royal Caribbean in the UK and Ireland for the past 10 years, which has seen the brand go from strength to strength. I am leaving one of the best teams in the business and wish Stuart and his team every success in continuing their exciting journey.

I am truly excited to join Antonio and the MSC Cruises team later this year and to continue to build on the great work that Janet and her team have done in the UK & Ireland as MSC look to substantially grow their own cruise business here.

Paradiso added: “Steve is an excellent addition to our UK and Ireland team and will be leading our sales organisation through a period of significant growth. He brings a wealth of expertise with him and I am confident he will help us continue with the growth plans we have in place for the UK and Ireland.”