Virtuoso, the leading global network specialising in luxury and experiential travel, today announced the appointment of Thatcher Brown as Special Advisor to the Chief Operating Officer, Cruise, underscoring the network's continued investment in cruise as a core growth engine amid a rapidly evolving and increasingly competitive landscape. 

In this newly created role, Brown will provide senior leadership perspective and strategic oversight to support the long-term health, trajectory and evolution of Virtuoso's cruise vertical. His focus will include strategy, structure and future product positioning, with an emphasis on strengthening global partnerships that support Virtuoso's worldwide membership and ensure the category is well positioned for sustained success both in the near term and over the coming years. 

As he helps shape the future of Virtuoso's cruise division, Brown will work closely with Senior Vice President, Global Partnerships Cory Hagopian and the Global Partnerships team to ensure alignment between cruise strategy, sales execution and future investment priorities. This collaboration ensures continuity across current priorities while strengthening long-term stability and clarity for the cruise organisation. Lori Sheller, Vice President, Global Cruise, will continue to lead day-to-day execution of the cruise business.  

“We are pleased to welcome Thatcher back to Virtuoso in this strategic advisory role, which underscores our commitment to leading in one of the industry's fastest growing and most strategically important segments,” said Virtuoso Chief Operating Officer Brad Bourland. “By pairing Thatcher's deep industry expertise with strong execution leadership and senior oversight, we are shaping a truly global cruise partnership model – one that leverages Virtuoso's worldwide footprint to connect our partners with the right member agencies and advisors, reach more high-value travelers, and drive long-term growth. This work strengthens the value we deliver today while positioning Virtuoso and our partners to lead the next chapter of cruise across our global network.” 

 Brown previously served as Senior Vice President, Global Products for Virtuoso and most recently as CEO for Crescent Seas. For more details on Virtuoso's network of the world's best travel agencies, advisors and preferred partners, visit www.virtuoso.com.    

About Virtuoso

Virtuoso is the leading global travel agency network specialising in luxury and experiential travel. This by-invitation-only organisation comprises over 1,200 travel agency locations with more than 20,000 travel advisors in 58 countries throughout North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. Drawing upon its preferred relationships with 2,500 of the world's best hotels and resorts, cruise lines, airlines, tour companies and premier destinations, the network provides its upscale clientele with exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged access. Annual sales of (U.S.) $35 billion make Virtuoso a powerhouse in the luxury travel industry. For more information, visit www.virtuoso.com.