CLIA Appoints New Co-Chairs of Trade Relations Committee

The Cruise Lines Industry Association (CLIA) has appointed Michelle Lardizabal, chief sales officer of Azamara Cruises, and Joshua Harrell, chief revenue officer of WorldVia Travel Network, as co-chairs of the Association’s Trade Relations Committee (TRC).  

The TRC serves as an advisory board representing both cruise lines and the travel trade across CLIA’s North American travel trade membership. The group collaborates on priorities that advance the cruise industry and support the success of travel advisors. Committee members include leaders from cruise lines, global river marketing affiliates, premier agency members, and other select travel agency members.

Lardizabal and Harrell will serve concurrent 24-month terms, with one co-chair representing the cruise line segment and one representing the trade, ensuring a balanced leadership structure and broad industry representation.

“Michelle and Joshua are widely respected leaders with deep experience supporting the travel agency distribution channel,” said Charles Sylvia, ECC, CLIA’s vice president, industry and trade relations. “Their insight, leadership, and commitment make them exceptionally well suited to guide the TRC in elevating collaboration across cruise brands and the advisor network.”

As co-chairs, Lardizabal and Harrell will help guide the committee’s work as it advises CLIA on key trade-facing initiatives. This includes advancing collaboration between cruise lines and travel advisors, offering strategic input on CLIA programs and communications, and contributing perspective on opportunities and challenges shaping the advisor relationship landscape. They will also support CLIA in its ongoing efforts to deepen member engagement and expand professional development across its travel trade community.

“I am thrilled to step into the role of co-chair of CLIA’s Trade Relations Committee,” Lardizabal said. “Travel advisors are the heart of our industry. They inspire travelers, fuel demand, and help shape the future of cruising through their expertise and passion. I look forward to partnering with Joshua and the dynamic voices represented across this committee to strengthen the connection between cruise brands and the advisor community.”

“I am honored to serve as co-chair of CLIA’s Trade Relations Committee alongside the incomparable Michelle Lardizabal,” added Harrell. “CLIA’s leadership and education keep travel advisors connected to the cruise industry, providing them with the tools to deliver unforgettable cruise experiences for their clients. Throughout my term and beyond, I look forward to helping accelerate and amplify CLIA’s impact on the advisor community and the cruise partners they champion.”

The TRC meets throughout the year, including an in-person session at Cruise360’s Premier Summit and scheduled virtual meetings.