Harry Sommer Out at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Board Director Named as Replacement
by Dori Saltzman
Harry Sommer (l) and John W. Chidsey (r). Photos: NCLH
Harry Sommer is stepping down as president, CEO, and director of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, effective immediately. He has been replaced by John W. Chidsey, a current director of NCLH, also effective immediately.
Chidsey has served as CEO of Subway Restaurants for five years, leading a multi-year effort to reposition the brand, modernize operations, and strengthen the company’s long-term growth trajectory. He was appointed to the NCLH Board of Directors in February 2025, having previously served on the Board from 2013 to 2022.
“During his tenure on the Board of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, John has been a highly respected leader and strategic voice. He is the right person to lead the Company through its next phase of execution and performance improvement,” said Stella David, chairperson of the Board.
“John has demonstrated his ability to lead businesses through meaningful transformation with a focus on operational rigor and accountability. We are excited for John to assume the role of President and Chief Executive Officer and are confident his leadership will enhance execution, strengthen financial performance, reduce leverage and drive long-term shareholder value.”
Sommer has led NCLH since July 2023 when he succeeded Frank Del Rio, who retired from the industry. Sommer previously served as president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line from 2020 to 2023.
David thanked Sommer for “his many years of dedication and service to the Company.”
“I look forward to building upon the solid foundation already in place, laid out by the Company’s award-winning brands, dedicated team and crew members, and loyal guests,” Chidsey said. “In my new position, my priority will be to partner with the Board and management team to sharpen execution, improve performance, and continue providing exceptional vacation experiences while delivering durable, long-term value creation.”
Chidsey has also previously served as CEO, as well as president and chief financial officer at Burger King Holdings Inc. Earlier in his career, Chidsey held senior leadership roles at Cendant Corporation, including chairman and CEO of two major divisions. He led the Vehicle Services Division, overseeing brands such as Avis Rent A Car, Budget Rent A Car Systems, PHH, and Wright Express, and the Financial Services Division, which included Jackson Hewitt
