CLIA appoints veteran maritime leader Bud Darr as president/CEOCLIA appoints veteran maritime leader Bud Darr as president/CEO

Cruise Lines International Association appointed Charles 'Bud' Darr as president/CEO, joining from MSC Group.

Darr will take the CLIA helm Feb. 3, succeeding Kelly Craighead, who earlier announced her plan to leave at year's end.

Previously led technical/regulatory affairs

Darr returns to CLIA, having previously served as SVP technical and regulatory affairs from 2010 to 2017. Since then, he's been based in Geneva as EVP maritime policy and government affairs for MSC Group.

Before his earlier CLIA stint, Darr held positions in the US Coast Guard, including deputy chief of maritime & international law, and he has served in the US Navy, Merchant Marine and USCG.

Proven leadership and dedication

'Bud’s proven leadership and dedication to advancing the cruise industry’s policies and environmental leadership practices make him the ideal candidate to lead us into a new era of growth and innovation,' CLIA Chairman Jason Liberty said. 'His extensive background and understanding of the maritime industry will be invaluable assets to CLIA as we set even higher benchmarks for success, and I look forward to working with him to drive our collective mission.'

Darr joins at a pivotal time as the cruise industry works toward the 2050 decarbonization targets.

Related:Kelly Craighead to depart CLIA at year's end

Relationships across the maritime sector

A highly respected figure in the maritime world, he brings exceptional maritime experience and strong relationships across the global cruise industry and its trade, equipment, ports, shipbuilders and service providers.

Darr's broader maritime community expertise and relationships include his involvement with the International Chamber of Shipping, BIMCO, UK Chamber of Shipping, Liberian Shipowners Council, SEA-LNG, Society for Gas as Marine Fuel, World Shipping Council, IMO World Maritime University, Cruise Safety and Sustainability Forum and the Seamen's Church Institute.

Dynamic changes and opportunities ahead

For his part, Darr is 'thrilled' to be returning to CLIA and 'grateful for the confidence that the Global Executive Committee and CLIA member lines have placed in me.

'With the dynamic changes and opportunities ahead, this industry is poised to set new pathways and raise the bar for innovation and sustainability,' Darr continued. 'I am eager to harness our collective expertise to propel us toward an even brighter future.'