New CEO to helm NZ Cruise Association –

The New Zealand Cruise Association (NZCA) has announced the retirement of CEO, Kevin O’Sullivan, effective June 30, 2023.

O’Sullivan has been the association’s CEO for the past four and a half years. Prior to that he was on the NZCA board for 15 years while holding the role of Regional Harbourmaster at Environment Southland.

Former Chair Debbie Summers said “Kevin will be missed immensely by all in our industry. He has worked tirelessly and in particular, throughout our battle to restart these past years. NZ Cruise is in a better place for all his efforts.

“As chair I particularly appreciated Kevin’s relentless positivity and sheer determination as he liaised and negotiated with the many stakeholders required to enable the sector’s post-COVID recovery.

“He has led NZCA through the most turbulent time the sector has ever experienced, and both the board and wider cruise industry stakeholders are deeply appreciative of the tireless work he has undertaken to facilitate and support the recovery of the sector.”

Current Chair of NZCA, Jacqui Lloyd, has been named as O’Sullivan’s successor and will take up the CEO position in June 2023.

Lloyd has more than 20 years of tourism, cruise and senior management experience, including his most recent role as General Manager of Destination Marlborough.

“Jacqui is the perfect person to lead NZCA through the next phase of the sector’s recovery,” said Tansy Tompkins, NZCA’s deputy chair. “Jacqui’s extensive tourism background, senior leadership experience and relationship skills will help NZCA to further develop strategic alliances, unite our sector and expand our presence on the world stage as the cruise industry rebounds.”
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“I am very excited to be taking up the CEO role at NZCA,” said Lloyd. “Largely due to the excellent leadership of Kevin O’Sullivan over the past four years, I believe the NZCA is in a brilliant position as the industry returns.

I’m looking forward to working with members, stakeholders, and our local communities to ensure New Zealand is both positioned as the best cruise destination for industry, and that it’s an industry that contributes to the economic, social, environmental, and cultural wellbeing of New Zealand.”

Lloyd will continue as NZCA chair until she starts her new role on June 1. A new chair will be announced in due course.