He most recently led the Americas as chief operating officer, and the company credited him for fueling growth organically and through acquisitions, brand differentiation and increasing market share across multiple channels. Sawhney is based in New York.
The Americas are important to Ponant, according to Herve Bellaiche, chief sales and marketing officer.
'Navin’s vision, expertise and leadership will be integral to building the brand into a global player in the high-end cruise segment,' Bellaiche said.
Sawhney previously worked for companies including Tauck, Cunard, Royal Viking, Sea Goddess and Holland America Line.
Ponant was acquired in October by Artemis, the holding company of France's billionaire Pinault family.
