Achille Staiano named Explora Journeys’ CCO, Norbert Stiekema goes to MSC senior commercial roleAchille Staiano named Explora Journeys’ CCO, Norbert Stiekema goes to MSC senior commercial role

Norbert Stiekema, who was named CCO at Explora Journeys in March, will continue to work for the cruise division of the MSC Group in a senior commercial role. 

Key role in Explora Journeys’ growth 

Based at Explora Journeys headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, Staiano joins the luxury travel brand of the MSC Group from sister company MSC Cruises where most recently he was SVP global sales, also based in Geneva.  

It is expected that the new position will see Staiano play a key role in the brand’s next phase of growth following the launch of Explora I in July this year. 

Ungerer remarked, ‘Achille’s in-depth knowledge of sales, global distribution channels and revenue management within the maritime industry are tremendous assets to have as we continue to establish our new brand in the luxury travel sector. He will play a pivotal role in the future growth of our business as more ships join our fleet and our capacity expands.’ 

He continued, ‘This appointment demonstrates the development opportunities that are open to our people within the MSC Group and I am pleased  to have Achille bring his extensive expertise to our senior leadership team.’ 

Achille Staiano

Staiano joined the MSC Group in 1994 and spent the first 11 years in MSC Group’s shipping container business in Naples and New York where he undertook a variety of senior commercial roles.   

He moved to MSC Cruises in 2004 and helped to shape the line’s global sales strategy to become one of the largest cruise brands worldwide and saw the fleet nearly double in size over six years with 22 vessels in service. 

He commented, ‘I have been a part of the MSC family since I was 19 years old and I am proud of the constant growth that I have experienced. My new role with Explora Journeys is an exciting challenge and I look forward to contributing to the continued global growth and success of the brand in the luxury travel sector.’ 

Explora vessels 

Explora I is currently sailing Northern Europe. Explora II will enter service in summer 2024 and LNG-powered ships Explora III and Explora IV will join the fleet in 2026 and 2027.