David, a Vessel and Hotel Operations Executive, has extensive experience in cruise and hotel management, including luxury start-ups and new builds. He led Vessel Operations at American Queen Voyages™ for 12 years and held leadership roles at Prestige Cruise Holdings, Aurora Hotels & Resorts, Royal Caribbean International, and Oceania Cruises. Known for exceeding expectations in premium product development and delivery, David is passionate about guest satisfaction, positive crew culture, and driving growth and revenue goals.

Christina is the Head of Operations, CHRO, and Executive Coach at a Texas consulting firm. With over 20 years of experience, she excels in HR and administrative operations. She led the HR & People Strategy at American Queen Voyages™ for 12 years and was head of HR at Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits – Indiana. Christina has a track record of establishing and optimizing HR and operations teams, policies, and start-up projects. She is passionate about organizational development, leadership optimization, compliance, and culture.

With over 16 years of experience in finance and accounting, Erica has established a strong track record of leadership and expertise across industries such as cruise, hotel & hospitality, logistics, and financial services. Prior to her role as CFO with Victory Cruise Lines, Erica held the position of Vice President of Finance & Accounting at Road & Rail Services and American Queen Voyages™. She began her career at PricewaterhouseCoopers as an Assurance Associate. Erica holds a BA in Accounting and an MBA from Bellarmine University and is a certified CPA in Kentucky.

Raised in the passenger vessel industry, Bill has over 40 years of marine experience, primarily on the Great Lakes. Starting as a deckhand, he earned his first Master’s license at 21. Bill managed operations for 9 dinner cruise vessels and owned a dinner cruise vessel on the Detroit River. At Hornblower Group, he worked on casino gaming vessels, ferry operations, and federal contracts. He started three high-speed car/passenger ferries on Lake Ontario, Lake Michigan, and in Hawaii, and deployed one for Haiti relief. As President/COO of Hornblower’s Seaward Services, he oversaw multiple federal DoD projects. Recently, he was VP of Marine Operations at American Queen Voyages.

Bob, a seasoned Sales and Marketing executive, has over 40 years of experience across Consumer Packaged Goods, Hospitality, Retail, and Cruise industries. He’s held leadership positions at The Gillette Company, Herschend Enterprises, and American Queen Voyages. Renowned for building strong, mutually beneficial relationships with trade partners, Bob excels in creating and executing strategic sales plans and nurturing high-performing sales teams. He is committed to delivering results and driving growth through innovative marketing strategies and exceptional team leadership.

Kari is an accomplished Marketing Executive with 30 years of success in driving transformation, growth and excellence. She has led the Marketing Strategy at companies such as American Queen Voyages™, Crystal Cruises, Sandals & Beaches Resorts, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea and Renaissance Cruises. Throughout her career, she’s excelled in establishing and optimizing marketing teams, successful rebranding projects, and start-up projects and programs.

With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Michael has developed a robust expertise in hotel management, food and beverage operations, marine services, technology, and procurement. He brings 12 years of specialized experience in purchasing, where he has successfully implemented high-quality, cost-effective procurement solutions. Michael is adept at leading projects, directing logistics, and managing inventory needs, consistently ensuring that operational performance aligns with strategic goals. His commitment to maintaining schedules and budgets has made him a valuable asset in enhancing overall operational efficiency.

Shelly is recognized for establishing strong partnerships and curating exclusive experiences. With over 20 years of experience in travel and hospitality, she has strategically led product development teams to identify, develop, and implement experiences that provide unique opportunities for guests that focus on culture, history, and culinary explorations. She previously held development and key partnership roles at American Queen Voyages and American Cruise Lines. Shelly is passionate about identifying hidden gems, providing unprecedented experiences, and supporting destination partners.

Sarah brings a wealth of first-hand experience in the hospitality and cruise industries to her role with Victory Cruise Lines. With just under a decade at American Queen Voyages, Sarah led multiple onboard and shoreside operations to success. Known for her expertise in guest services, quality assurance, and project management, Sarah is dedicated to creating one of a kind exceptional experiences for all guests.