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Embarking on new strategic plan, Pullmantur hires operations, commercial VPs

Embarking on new strategic plan, Pullmantur hires operations, commercial VPs
Grupo Pullmantur appointed two executives to lead operations and commercial areas, with worldwide responsibility. Jurgen Bailon and José Blanco, both vice presidents, will be based in the Madrid headquarters and report to Jorge Vilches, president and ceo.

Vilches said the appointments come at an important moment as the company launches a new strategic plan that focuses on the passenger and consistently maintaining a high-quality product.

Heading operations, Bailom is responsible for overall strategy in areas such as on-board revenue and hotel supply chain. He brings extensive cruise-sector experience, mainly within the Royal Caribbean group. Since 1991, he's held roles such as fleet hotel director, food and beverage director and vacation experience manager/gm.

Bailom also served as vp Island Cruises in Brazil, and before joining the Pullmantur group he was corporate director of ship management services for Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises.

Blanco, who takes on the commercial role Feb. 8, will oversee the strategy and commercial activity for Pullmantur on a global basis. He's had a long, successful career in the tourism sector, most recently as gm sales and marketing for Spain Europcar. Earlier positions included commercial director of Parque Isla Magica and director of marketing and sales at PortAventura Resort.