Virgin Voyages updates commercial structure to support trade

Virgin Voyages has made strategic investments in its sales organization structure that reflect the critical role travel advisors play in the brand's continued growth.

As shared in a press release Thursday (May 29), Koreen McNutt joins the adults-only cruise line as vice president of agency and business development, bringing more than 30 years of cruise industry expertise.

 Most recently, McNutt served as SVP and commercial officer at MSC Cruises, where she led the brand's advisor strategy and trade sales performance during a period of significant U.S. investment and expansion.

Prior to MSC, she spent 16 years at Expedia Group, rising to senior director of global cruise supply, leading global commercial partnerships and supplier strategy.

She also brings 13 years of experience from Holland America Line and Windstar Cruises, where she led product and project management initiatives that directly impacted fleet-wide operations.

"Virgin Voyages has consistently proven their commitment to travel advisors isn't just talk — it's built into their DNA," said McNutt in a statement. "What I love about this company is their authentic approach to building partnerships. I'm excited to accelerate the incredible foundation they've created and develop more innovative ways to support advisor success as we build this company together.

Kristy Woolums steps into the role of senior director of national strategic accounts, North America.

This dedicated leadership role recognizes the critical importance of national account relationships in driving strategic growth, market positioning and long-term brand value.

In this specialized function, Woolums will focus exclusively on high-value strategic partnerships, providing the dedicated attention and leadership focus that these relationships require.

She will also serve as the cruise line's key representative at major events and industry get-togethers, ensuring Virgin Voyages maintains strong visibility and that First Mate success stories are shared throughout the industry.

Stephen Hopkins is expanding his role as vice president of growth and international sales and marketing under Nathan Rosenberg’s leadership to include sales acceleration.

In this enhanced capacity, he will oversee the integration of sales enablement, trade marketing, and partner engagement initiatives — all designed to deliver stronger tools, more streamlined support, and enhanced resources for Virgin Voyages’ global network of travel partners.

“By bringing these key commercial functions together under one leader, Virgin Voyages is creating a more unified and efficient approach to driving partner success,” the company said. “This structure allows for improved alignment across marketing channels, more cohesive campaign execution, and greater ease of access to the tools and support travel advisors need to convert business and grow their Virgin Voyages sales.

A unified strategy

The enhanced structure creates a unified commercial team under Chief Marketing Officer Nathan Rosenberg's leadership, “breaking down traditional silos between sales and marketing to ensure First Mates receive cohesive support across all touchpoints.”

"By working in better coordination across our brand story, marketing strategy and sales execution, we reduce mixed messages and disconnected experiences for our First Mates," said Rosenberg. "This creates integrated strategies that make it easier for them to sell Virgin Voyages successfully, helping us all make ship happen together."

The enhancements come as Virgin Voyages celebrates a sold-out Ultimate First Mate Voyage and as its trade channel delivers “outsized year-over-year growth.”

"During First Mate Appreciation Month, there's no better time to announce these investments in building our partnership's future together," said Nirmal Saverimuttu, CEO of Virgin Voyages, in a statement. "First Mates aren't just important to Virgin Voyages — they are key to our growth and future. Our sold-out Ultimate First Mate Voyage demonstrates the incredible strength of this partnership, and these leadership appointments reflect our commitment to the advisors who have helped us build this company from day one. As we always say, feedback is a gift, and their success has taught us exactly where to invest next."

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