Carnival's Ben Clement adding maritime in move up to EVP

Currently SVP newbuilds, refurbishments and product development, Clement will take on his expanded role when Lars Ljoen, chief operations officer, transitions to Carnival Corp. & plc as chief maritime officer, succeeding Adm. Bill Burke.

28-year Carnival veteran

Clement joined Carnival in 1996 and has played a leadership role in the design, refurbishment and building of all of the line’s 27-ship fleet over the last two decades. His approach to ship and product design has enabled Carnival to introduce new classes of ships — including the Dream, Vista and Excel classes — and innovations such as the first roller-coaster at sea.

'Ben has continually pushed us to think about ship design, features, venues and products in ways that have helped redefine Carnival, grow guest loyalty and build a vibrant customer base that has propelled our growth,' Carnival President Christine Duffy said. 'Yet he is also an outstanding mariner, with vast knowledge and experience acquired during his time in the French navy, merchant marine and shipyard management. 

'That unique combination of talent and experience across so many aspects of maritime operations,' she continued, 'will allow us to maintain our leadership in operational and cultural excellence.'

A native of France, Clement served as a navigation officer in the French navy, an officer on multiple merchant ships and a shipyard director in Toulon. 

Takes on marine and technical operations and compliance

Adding to his newbuild and refurbishment responsibilities, Clement will lead maritime and technical operations and compliance.

With five ships on order, including three of a large new class from Fincantieri and two Excel vessels at Meyer Werft, Carnival will backfill Clement's current role to support the successful delivery of those ships that begin to arrive in 2027.