Ponant has promoted Deb Corbett, general manager of sales and marketing for Asia Pacific, to CEO APAC as the luxury cruise line continues its push into the region.
Just last month, Travel Weekly reported Corbett would head up the new Ponant team in APAC as it makes a move into the region with its flagship Paspaley Pearl by Ponant and its foray into the Kimberley.
Corbett has 30 years in the industry, and seven with Ponant. Her team will report to Belinda Hindmarsh, Deputy CEO Global Business.
Previous APAC CEO Chris Hall, who started in February 2023, had been based in Ponant HQ in Marseille since October last year.
“Chris has been instrumental in the transformation of the business as we focus on our growth across multiple markets, with a priority given to technology, distribution and product development. I wish Chris all the best in his future endeavours,” Hindmarsh said.
The APAC management team now consists of COO Maxime Farrenq; director of sales Julie Rogers, whose tole now includes Japan and Hong Kong; David Marionneau as director of maritime operations; director of marketing & communications Charles Boutet, cruise veteran Mick Fogg as director of expedition & destination development and Helene Delgado, Customer Engagement Director.
Sarina Bratton will continue in her in her role as global senior strategic advisor and honorary chairwoman.
“Ponant is fortunate to have such high calibre executives to manage the APAC region and it is with great delight that Deb Corbett is appointed to the CEO role,” Bratton said. “Her business experience, professionalism, and industry knowledge will ensure our growth plans are in good hands.”
Corbett has also been elected to the CLIA Australasia Executive Committee.
Feature image: (from left) Charles Boutet, Deb Corbett, Mick Fogg, Julie Rogers and Maxime Farrenq in Ponant’s Marseille headquarters.
