Classic Vacations CEO Melissa Krueger Steps Down

Classic Vacations CEO Melissa Krueger is departing the luxury tour operator after 13 years with the company, five of them as CEO.  

To fill the role, Classic Vacations CFO Sharon Conway is stepping in as interim CEO, effective immediately. The news comes one year after Classic Vacations was acquired by TBO, an India-based global travel distribution company. 

“Melissa has made an extraordinary contribution to Classic Vacations over the past 13 years, and we are deeply grateful for the leadership, commitment and passion she has brought to the business,” said Gaurav Bhatnagar, co-founder and joint managing director of TBO. “As Classic enters its next chapter, Sharon is exceptionally well positioned to provide continuity while building on the momentum already created. Her understanding of the business, and combination of strategic, operational and financial expertise make her a natural leader for this moment.”    

Conway is a 20-year veteran of Classic Vacations, acting as a senior leader for the past two decades as the company continues its travel advisor-first approach. Since the TBO acquisition, Classic Vacations has expanded its destination portfolio and sales team, as well as invested in technology to enhance the travel advisor experience. The leadership transition will not impact operations, the company assured advisors.

“Having spent 20 years at Classic Vacations, I’ve had the privilege of seeing firsthand what makes this company special: our people, the trust we’ve built with travel advisors, our consortia partners and across the industry, and the level of service we bring to every relationship,” Conway said.  “As I step into this role, I’m focused on listening closely to our teams and partners, staying connected to the needs of our advisor community and ensuring we continue delivering the experience they have come to expect from Classic.”