AmaWaterways has taken a clear step toward strengthening its future by appointing two senior leaders to its executive team, bringing in fresh expertise across both technology and people operations.
The river cruise line announced the appointments of AmaWaterways Virginia Suliman as chief technology officer and Michael Moghtader as chief people officer, marking an important moment as the company continues to grow globally.
Virginia Suliman joins AmaWaterways with a deep background in technology leadership, particularly within travel and hospitality. Most recently, she served as chief information and digital officer at Invitation Homes, where she oversaw large-scale digital transformation initiatives.
Before that, she spent more than two decades with Hilton, rising through the ranks to become senior vice president of global software engineering. Her experience brings a strong mix of innovation and operational understanding to the river cruise brand.
Speaking about her new role, Suliman said she was excited to return to the travel industry at a time when AmaWaterways is expanding its footprint.
She emphasised how technology can help teams work more efficiently while also improving the guest experience, from the planning stage through the journey itself.
In her new position, she will lead the company’s long-term technology strategy and guide its digital evolution.
Michael Moghtader also brings more than 20 years of leadership experience, with a career focused on human resources, talent development and organizational change.
His background spans hospitality, healthcare, retail and luxury brands. Most recently, he served as chief people officer at Postcard Cabins (formerly Getaway) and held senior HR roles at Conifer Health Solutions and Signet Jewellers.
At AmaWaterways, Moghtader will focus on building a strong, supportive workplace culture as the company grows.
His role centers on attracting and developing talent, enhancing the employee experience and ensuring teams feel connected and valued.
He noted that AmaWaterways has created something special not only for guests, but also for the people who deliver those experiences every day.
Catherine Powell, CEO of AmaWaterways, said the appointments reflect the company’s commitment to investing in both its people and its technology.
The appointment follows a series of recent leadership changes across the cruise industry, including AIDA Cruises naming Anika Birkholz as its new Vice President in a strategic management move.
She added that the leadership and vision brought by Suliman and Moghtader will help AmaWaterways continue delivering exceptional experiences on board and ashore as it enters its next phase of growth.
