CLIA Names New SVP, Partnership & Membership Strategy

Cruise Lines International Association has named Chiara Giorgi as its next senior vice president of partnership and membership strategy, effective June 15, 2026. She replaces Karyn Gruenberg, senior vice president of membership and enterprise development at CLIA who announced last year she plans to retire this June.

Giorgi will join CLIA from Seatrade Cruise (part of Informa Markets), where she currently serves as Global Brand & Event Director, leading the strategic direction and development of the cruise industry’s leading global events.

According to both CLIA and Seatrade Cruise, the “planned leadership progression” reflects “continued collaboration and alignment across the global cruise industry.”

Building on the foundation established by Gruenberg, Giorgi will be responsible for enterprise-wide membership strategy, development, and partner engagement, working to expand membership, strengthen strategic partnerships, and advance long-term growth.

“Chiara brings a strong global perspective and deep industry experience that builds on that momentum,” said Bud Darr, president & CEO of CLIA. “Her ability to connect stakeholders across the industry will be instrumental as we continue to strengthen member value, expand partnerships, and advance our work across the cruise community.”

Mary Bond, group portfolio director of Seatrade Cruise, added: “Chiara has been an exceptional leader and colleague, whose vision and dedication have been integral to the success of Seatrade Cruise. While we will miss her presence on the team, we are pleased she will continue to work closely with us through her new role at CLIA. Her passion for the industry and commitment to collaboration will continue to benefit the broader cruise community.”

As part of Giorgi’s exit from Seatrade Cruise, the following changes within the Seatrade Cruise team will become effective May 1, 2026:

• Emma Bond, who has worked at Seatrade Cruise since 2013, will be promoted to event director, responsible for the day-to-day management and success of the Seatrade Cruise global events portfolio

• Jacqui Pressinger, who joined the team in 2024, will be promoted to senior relationship manager, responsible for expanding buyer relationships and partnerships across Seatrade Cruise events.