Oceania Cruises has announced the appointment of Brennan Quesnele as senior vice president of sales, starting on February 24. Quesnele transitions from Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), where he played a vital role in shaping sales strategies for the North American market. This change in leadership follows the departure of Nikki Upshaw, who left Oceania in January, ushering in an opportunity for the cruise line to leverage Quesnele’s extensive experience to enhance its market position.
Brennan Quesnele’s career has positioned him as a capable leader in the cruise industry. His prior role at NCL involved overseeing strategic and national accounts, which equipped him with the insights necessary to drive Oceania’s growth ambitions. The decision to place him at the helm of sales comes with a high expectation of performance, as he will be responsible for the line’s global sales strategies and partner relationships. Additionally, his experience as vice president of sales at Gogo Vacations further contributes to his understanding of consumer behavior and market trends, which are essential for the cruise industry’s competitive landscape.
In his new role, Quesnele will lead the sales teams focused on field sales, strategic accounts, and international markets. His primary objective will be to identify and capitalize on growth opportunities across various trade sales channels. This responsibility is crucial as the cruise industry continues to recover and evolve post-pandemic. Quesnele’s ability to adapt to market changes while forging strong relationships within the travel industry will greatly impact Oceania’s sales success.
While stepping into this significant role, Quesnele will report directly to Oceania president Frank A. Del Rio. This direct line of communication signals that the leadership is keen on aligning sales strategies closely with broader company objectives. Euclidean supports in maintaining momentum through their recovery phase, especially since significant changes in leadership can often shift the trajectory of sales outcomes.
The announcement of Quesnele’s appointment coincides with the return of Jason Montague to Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, who will oversee both Oceania and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. This move reflects a strategic consolidation of leadership within the organization, aiming to unify the brand’s direction. Montague’s experience will provide a guiding hand as Quesnele assumes his position, ensuring that Oceania’s sales strategies remain relevant and effective.
As Oceania Cruises welcomes Brennan Quesnele into a pivotal leadership role, the focus shifts toward harnessing market dynamics, enhancing partnerships, and executing on a vision that promises growth. The coming months will be critical for Quesnele and the entire company as they navigate the complexities of the cruise industry’s landscape and strive for a swift recovery and growth in a challenging yet promising environment.