Costa Cruises Revamps North American Sales Team for Enhanced Market Presence

Costa Cruises announces a strategic overhaul of its North American sales organization, led by industry veterans, to bolster growth and reinforce its commitment to the North and South American markets.

Costa Cruises Announces Strategic Restructuring of Its North American Sales Force

 Costa Cruises, the Italian cruise line, is set to enhance its commercial operations in North America with a newly structured sales team, aimed at strengthening its market position in both North and South America. This move, part of the company's ongoing growth and organizational evolution, places Dario Rustico at the helm as General Manager for the Americas, reporting directly to Francesco Muglia, the Global Commercial Senior Vice President.

Marking a significant transition, Ruben Perez, a long-serving veteran who has led the Costa sales team in North America for over four decades, will step down from his position as General Manager of Costa Cruises North America. The company has expressed its deep gratitude for Perez's substantial contributions to the brand's success in the U.S. market. "Ruben's leadership has been instrumental in steering our North American team through many successful years," remarked Mario Zanetti, President of Costa Cruises.

In a statement, Perez reflected on his tenure, expressing pride in the accomplishments achieved during his time with Costa and confidence in the company's ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional cruise experiences to its American clientele and travel partners.

Erik Jaramillo is set to lead the new sales division as Head of Sales for Costa North America, effective March 1, 2024. In his new role, Jaramillo will manage strategic and national accounts, charter and incentives, and field sales, under Rustico's guidance. Jaramillo's extensive background with Costa Cruises, covering various aspects of the business from sales and e-commerce to revenue management, prepares him well for this leadership position.

Supporting the revamped sales team, Yeniss Palacio, Priscilla Reyes, and Becky Tate join as business development managers. With their diverse experiences ranging from Tate's 35-year tenure in the travel industry to Palacio's 23 years at American Airlines, the team is poised for significant contributions to Costa's growth in North America. Palacio will focus on South Florida, the Midwest, and the Caribbean, while Reyes will cater to the West Coast and Canada, and Tate will cover Central and North Florida and the East Coast.

This strategic realignment underscores Costa Cruises' dedication to expanding its footprint and enhancing service offerings in the Americas, signaling a new era of growth and opportunity for the renowned cruise line.