Ponant appoints three US-based directors in operations, marketing

All three are US-based.

Bert van Middendorp

With more than 30 years of experience in the cruise and hospitality industry, van Middendorp is now managing the onboard hotel experience across Ponant's fleet. He is responsible for defining and elevating service excellence and continuing to develop client relations.

Before a recent consulting stint, van Middendorp had led teams in hotel operations roles at Crystal Cruises, Azamara, SeaDream Yacht Club and Cunard/Seabourn. His work in some roles also extended to destination experiences and ground operations.

Natasha Hanson

Hanson will oversee expeditions and excursion activities for for Ponant and manage its team of expedition guides, excursion managers and local guides.

Previously she was senior operations manager at Crystal Cruises, heading expeditions. Hanson also worked as South Pacific destinations development manager for Holland America Group and in explorer product development for Hurtigruten. She served as an expedition leader for Seabourn and Poseidon Expeditions and a hotel manager on various expedition ships.

Vanessa Kraus

Kraus leads North American marketing efforts for Ponant and is responsible for building brand awareness and driving bookings.

She brings more than 15 years of brand management and communications experience, most recently as marketing manager for Miller Environmental Group with previous roles including marketing director at Sea Tow Services and principal of her own company, Blueprint Marketing.

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