Norwegian Cruise Line has announced that cruise industry veteran John Chernesky will succeed Todd Hamilton as the Brand’s Sr. VP of Sales for North America, as Hamilton steps into a new strategic role as Sr. VP of New Ventures at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

Chernesky, known for a 30-year career at Princess Cruise Lines, has “a reputation of championing the role travel partners play in the success of the cruise industry, as well as the guest experience,” according to NCL, and will be responsible for the Brand’s overall trade sales strategy across US and Canada, under the leadership of newly appointed NCL President David Herrera.

In his new role, Chernesky will reinforce NCL’s legacy Partners First philosophy of investing in and supporting the travel partner community through educational tools, marketing support and access to programs and opportunities that empower travel advisors to maximize their earning potential.

“Norwegian Cruise Line has a history of delivering exceptional experiences and putting partners first,” says Chernesky. “I am a huge advocate for the trade community, who play such a critical role in the success of this industry that I love and am continuously inspired by the passion they bring to what they do. I am thrilled to be back in the game and to join the incredible and dedicated team at NCL.”

Last year, NCL made history as the first major contemporary cruise company to pay commission on non-commissionable fares.

In addition, the brand recently updated its commission tier structure offering advisors the opportunity to advance commission tiers more quickly based on net bookings or booked revenue.

Chernesky’s 30-year career spans multiple disciplines and various leadership roles across the cruise industry from sales and trade marketing to hotel operations, onboard revenue, business development, newbuild design development and passenger programs, with a proven track record of implementing and executing solutions and programs that drive sales and raise guest satisfaction ratings.

Meanwhile, as NCLH’s newly appointed Sr. VP of New Ventures, Todd Hamilton will report to NCLH President and CEO elect Harry Sommer and will be responsible for new strategic business developments, working closely with the NCLH executive team to deliver on the company’s priorities.