Ambassador Cruise Line appoints Gordon Nardini as Chief Marketing Officer
Nardini joined Ambassador in April 2021 on a consultancy basis to conceive and help build the business and brand from inception, prior to its formal launch in May 2021. Reporting in to the cruise line’s Chief Executive Officer, Christian Verhounig, Nardini now sits on the Executive Leadership team.
Nardini said: “From just a name, in 12 weeks we created a fully-fledged brand. This included all the assets, a robust media plan, online and offline strategies and creative executions”.
In his now permanent role as CMO, he will continue to lead the company’s marketing and external and internal communications teams, as well as oversee the company’s PR and Marketing agencies, LOTUS UK Integrated Communications Ltd. and Accord Marketing.
A seasoned marketing professional with over 20 years’ experience, prior to joining Ambassador Nardini operated as MD of his own private consultancy business, specialising in the provision of strategic Sales and Marketing solutions for a broad client base. He also held a variety of fixed term contracts, including Commercial Director and Board Member at Chameleon Art Products.
His earlier career spans an eclectic sector range from technology to communications and latterly travel. Brands include Vodafone and The Carphone Warehouse, as well as a decade within the travel sector incorporating Amadeus IT Group, Carlson Wagonlit Travel and Travelport - delivering tangible commercial results in business development, marketing and communications strategies.
Nardini said of his appointment: “To have been involved in the development of the brand for the first post-pandemic cruise line to launch in the UK has been a huge privilege. The commitment and agility offered by the broader team and our agencies has contributed to the remarkable success of the launch. I accepted the role with confidence as we set sail for our inaugural season in April 2022 and are poised to expand the fleet beyond our first ship Ambience, further delivering premium value cruises at an affordable price. I look forward to an exciting future at Ambassador”.
Ambassador Cruise Line Chief Executive Officer, Christian Verhounig added: “Gordon’s fundamental involvement in creating and building our brand, and the behind-the-scenes set up, has contributed to what Ambassador Cruise Line is today and the warm welcome the cruise line has received from the travel industry and travellers alike. We are delighted he is now a full-time member of the Executive Leadership team.”
Ambassador offers a premium-value, traditional cruise experience primarily aimed at the 50-plus market. Their purpose is to inspire and delight every guest to enjoy an authentic cruise experience effortlessly, and sustainably.