Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection promotes two, hires two

The moves were announced days after the company raised $300m in a bond issue and days before it is set to take delivery of its second yacht, Ilma.

Jens Gorka

Gorka advanced to chief shipboard operations officer from SVP, having 'significantly enhanced guest satisfaction scores and financial performance.' He will continue to oversee all aspects of shipboard operations from the company’s Monaco office. Gorka has been with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection four years, joining after 16 years at Silversea where he ultimately served as VP hotel operations.

Phillip Herbert

Herbert was promoted to VP hotel operations from senior director, having been 'instrumental in elevating operational excellence.' He's been with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection four years, bringing experience as a hotel director with Azamara Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and Crystal.

Andrea Leistner

Leistner joins as VP procurement and supply chain, pivotal in optimizing operational efficiency and maintaining consistently high standards across hotel operations, marine operations and IT for all existing operations and newbuilds. Her experience includes VP procurement and supply chain at Silversea Cruises and Costa Crociere, plus roles at Generali, Alitalia, HJ Heinz and 3M.

Frank Koppelkamm

Koppelkamm steps in as senior director of culinary operations and will work alongside Chris Graham, culinary director, who continues to spearhead culinary development across the fleet. Koppelkamm brings extensive culinary experience from serving as executive chef and chef de cuisine at several Ritz-Carlton hotels, culinary director at W Hotels, and executive chef at St. Regis and Raffles hotels.

Strong leadership

'It is an exciting time at The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection as we prepare for the launch of our second luxury superyacht and look ahead to the debut of our third,' said Ernesto Fara, president/CFO. 'With a team of incredible individuals who have already made a significant impact, we are positioning ourselves for continued success through strong leadership. Our focus remains on curating a team that will deliver an exceptional experience for our guests.'