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Clia Europe secretary-general to step down

Cruise industry body Clia Europe’s secretary general Raphael Von Heereman is stepping down from the organisation after just two years in the role.

He is being replaced on January 3 by industry veteran Tom Fecke, a former Royal Caribbean Cruises regional general manager for Germany, Austria and Switzerland for eight years.

Fecke, who has also worked for Travelport and Avis, is joining Clia from his role as managing director of the Travel Industry Club, a business leaders group in Germany and Austria with more than 800 members.

Clia said Von Heereman, who has been with the association since February 2015, will be “transitioning out of his role” as secretary general early next year.

Clia president and chief executive Cindy D’Aoust said: “Tom’s extensive experience in the travel industry makes him a welcome addition to our leadership team.

“The European cruise market has seen impressive growth over the past few years and I look forward to working with Tom to ensure the future success of the cruise market throughout Europe.”

She added: “During his time with Clia Europe, Raphael has been invaluable member of our team and I thank him for his dedication and commitment during the last two years.

“He brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise from the airline sector that helped us develop an effective advocacy program and I wish him success in his next chapter.”

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