AmaWaterways’ sales chief Alex Pinelo to leave company at end of month

Alex Pinelo is leaving AmaWaterways after nine years with the luxury river cruise line, with his final day set for July 31.

Company CEO Catherine Powell recently announced the news in an email to travel advisors, saying Pinelo has decided to relocate to Florida to be closer to his family.

Pinelo joined AmaWaterways in 2017 as director of Latin America and went on to hold several senior sales leadership roles.

He was appointed chief sales officer in February 2025, capping a steady rise through the company's ranks.

Gary Murphy, AmaWaterways' co-owner and vice president of national accounts, will step into the role of interim chief sales officer while the company searches for a permanent replacement.

"Many of you already know Gary, whose family helped found AmaWaterways and who has spent many years building relationships with travel advisors across the industry. He knows our business, our industry and, most importantly, our travel advisor community inside and out. Together with our Executive Leadership Team and the talented individuals across our organization, he will ensure a seamless transition," Powell wrote in her message to travel advisors. 

Powell added the leadership transition will not affect day-to-day operations, assuring partners that their business development managers and the broader sales team will continue to serve as their primary points of contact.

"On behalf of everyone at AmaWaterways, I want to thank Alex for his years of commitment, friendship and unwavering support of our travel advisor partners," wrote Powell. "While we are sad to see him go, we understand and respect his decision. We wish Alex and his family every happiness and success as they begin this exciting new chapter." 

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