Virtuoso has appointed industry veteran Thatcher Brown as special advisor to the chief operating officer, Cruise, reinforcing cruise as a key strategic growth priority for the global luxury travel network.
In the newly created role, Brown will provide senior-level strategic oversight to support the long-term development of Virtuoso’s cruise business, with a focus on structure, strategy and future product positioning. The appointment comes as cruise continues to evolve rapidly and face growing competition.
Brown will work closely with Senior Vice President, Global Partnerships Cory Hagopian and the global partnerships team to align cruise strategy with sales execution and investment priorities. Day-to-day leadership of the cruise division will remain with Vice President, Global Cruise Lori Sheller.
Virtuoso Chief Operating Officer Brad Bourland said the appointment highlighted the network’s commitment to cruise as one of its fastest-growing and most strategically important sectors.
“By pairing Thatcher’s deep industry expertise with strong execution leadership, we are strengthening a truly global cruise partnership model that connects our partners with the right advisors and high-value travellers, while positioning the category for long-term growth,” Bourland said.
Brown previously served as Virtuoso’s Senior Vice President, Global Products and most recently held the role of CEO at Crescent Seas.
