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Rolf-Dieter Maltzahn named A-ROSA’s new CEORolf-Dieter Maltzahn named A-ROSA’s new CEO

An experienced tourism expert, Rolf-Dieter Maltzahn will steer A-ROSA into the future as the cruise line’s MD, Jörg Eichler, exits to take on a new role within the tourism industry.

Holly Payne, Editor Video Production and Deputy Editor

January 15, 2025

3 Min Read
A-ROSA-Rolf-Dieter-Maltzahn-cruise-line-Arosa
Rolf-Dieter Maltzahn whose most recent role was MD of GALERIA ReisenPHOTO: A-ROSA

Rolf-Dieter Maltzahn will be the new CEO of A-ROSA, replacing the river cruise line's MD Jörg Eichler at the beginning of February.

Eichler will depart A-ROSA at the end of February following a handover of responsibilities. 

‘The timing is ideal for a successful handover of management responsibility at A-ROSA,’ said Eichler. 

‘Following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, we were able to get A-ROSA firmly back on track by introducing new strategies and technologies. 

‘In 2024, we achieved the highest turnover in the company’s history and the pre-bookings for 2025, at +35%, also indicate that the more flexible premium fare has been well received. The company can now capitalise on this and continue its success story.’

Shareholders and advisory board

Maltzahn’s most recent role was as MD of GALERIA Reisen where he was responsible for the travel and tourism division. His work there included implementing the transformation to omnichannel sales, which combines modern digital concepts with in-store services. Other key areas were a realignment of the corporate culture as well as sustainable brand positioning.

‘We are delighted to have found a very experienced but also innovative CEO for A-ROSA in Rolf-Dieter Maltzahn,’ said Michael Ungerer, chairman of the advisory board of the A-ROSA Group.

‘Thanks to his many years of diverse expertise in the tourism industry, particularly in the areas of business strategy, digitalisation and agile transformation, he will successfully lead A-ROSA River Cruises into the future.’ 

Ungerer added, ‘On behalf of the shareholders and the advisory board, I would like to thank Jörg Eichler for over 11 years of successful leadership and for developing A-ROSA into the premium brand it is today.’ 

Maltzahn will work closely with Markus Zoepke, COO and co-partner of the company since 2003, who will continue to be in charge of operations at the Chur location in Switzerland.

Rolf-Dieter Maltzahn

Maltzahn’s career began in 1989 at TUI, where he held various management positions until 2008, ultimately serving as head of purchasing Central Europe. He then moved to DER Touristik, where he initially headed the hotel unit as CEO until 2013 and was responsible for package holidays as MD until 2019. 

In these roles, he drove forward brand repositioning, digital innovations and process optimisation, which led to a successful turnaround with significant increases in sales and efficiency gains. A career highlight was the launch of the ‘Cooee’ hotel brand, which made a meaningful contribution to winning new customers and increasing margins.

The incoming CEO stated, ‘I am looking forward to continuing the successful growth of A-ROSA Flussschiff. This is possible thanks to the strong team and trusting partnerships. In an environment of growth and digitalisation, it is also particularly important to win and maintain customer loyalty with very good omnichannel sales – which we will continue to work on together.’

About the Author

Holly Payne

Editor Video Production and Deputy Editor

Holly is Deputy Editor, Seatrade Cruise Review & Seatrade Cruise News and has experience managing a range of highly successful international business and consumer titles. With a flair for video reporting and a history of overseas work documenting people and places of diverse cultures, Holly brings a variety of skills to the Seatrade Cruise portfolio.

Holly’s academic credentials include oral and written Arabic language skills (intermediate-advanced), an MA Multimedia Journalism with NCTJ accreditation, and a BA (Hons) Degree in Classical and Archaeological Studies with English and American Literature.

 

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