Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines appoints new CEO, Deer moves to CFO

She joins the company from FTI Touristik, where she currently serves as chief commercial officer.

Strategic development

Based at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ head office in Ipswich, UK, Stimpson will take overall responsibility for strategic development and managing the Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ operation, which covers 220 staff in Ipswich and more than 2,000 crew members across the Fred. Olsen fleet of three ocean cruise ships.

Anette Olsen, CEO of Bonheur ASA, spoke the new hire on behalf of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Board of Directors: ‘Samantha brings a strategic mindset, extensive knowledge and management experience with a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the travel industry. We are very pleased that Samantha joins us, as we see exciting possibilities for Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines for the future.’

Stimpson said: ‘I very much look forward to working with the organization, contributing my skills and expertise, continuing to enhance the strategy which is built on smaller, elegant ships, and exceptional experiences, underpinned by a culture that recognizes the importance of personal, attentive service.’

Her new role will commence no later than February 1, 2024.

Pete Deer

Pete Deer, the current managing director, will take the position as CFO, overseeing the financial operations of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.