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Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings signs on first woman director

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Stella David - successful marketing and brand-building experience
Stella David, former ceo of William Grant & Sons Ltd., a company that distills some of the world’s leading brands of Scotch whisky, including Glenfiddich and Grant's, is joining the board of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.

David becomes the first woman director of NCLH. She starts in January.

'Stella's experience overseeing a remarkable collection of global spirit brands and with successful marketing and brand-building gives her a unique perspective that's an excellent complement to the diverse talents of our other board members,' chairman Walter Revell said.

At William Grant & Sons David was responsible for the growth of the business from 2009 through 2016, with a focus on developing brand awareness, including that of Glenfiddich and Hendrick's Gin, global expansion into new markets and acquisitions and innovations. Under her leadership, the company acquired Tullamore D.E.W. Irish whiskey and Drambuie liqueur.

Prior to that, David held a variety of key positions at Bacardi Ltd. over a 15-year period, including ceo of the UK, Irish, Dutch and African businesses and global chief marketing officer.

'Stella's strategic insights and marketing savvy will further position the company for sustained growth and will support our operations in today's dynamic international business environment,' said Frank Del Rio, president, ceo and board member, NCLH.

For her part, David said she's 'thrilled to be joining the board of a company that has helped create memorable vacations for guests for the last 50 years.'

David qualifies as an independent director.

Other NCLH board members include David Abrams, founder and partner, non-performing loans, Apollo Management International; Adam Aron, ceo, AMC Entertainment; Steve Martinez, head of Asia Pacific, Apollo Management; John Chidsey, former chairman and ceo, Burger King Corp.; Russell Galbut, managing principal of real estate company Crescent Heights; and Chat Leat, retired vice chairman, global banking, Citigroup.

David will be appointed to the Nominating and Governance Committee, chaired by Abrams. Chidsey is also a member of that committee.