Giles Hawke to leave MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises has announced that Giles Hawke is set to leave his role as executive director, with Antonio Paradiso replacing him.

Hawke, who has been at the Swiss-based company for more than two years, will leave in April. The line expressed thanks at “the significant contribution to the business and the brand in the markets” he made during this time.

Mr Paradiso is currently based at MSC Cruises’ global headquarters in Geneva as executive director, emerging markets.

The company said he will take up this new, London-based role bringing with him great experience coming from an extensive MSC Cruises background.

Formerly trade manager for Germany, Austria and Switzerland, in 2012 he was promoted to executive director, emerging market, a role he will also continue to do in the interim.

At the same time, Achille Staiano, currently head of commercial services, will assume on an ad interim basis market responsibility for Australia, Scandinavia and South Africa, three markets formerly part of Giles Hawke’ portfolio.

Gianni Onorato, chief executive officer MSC Cruises, commented: “Antonio will be a strong successor to Giles as we look to grow further our business in the UK and Ireland.

“To best prepare for this, over the next two months Giles and Antonio will be working closely together on a full handover and familiarisation of the MSC Cruises business, its partners and other key stakeholders across both markets.”

Mr Onorato added: “I wish to thank Giles for his contribution to the business during his time with MSC Cruises. At the same time, this is an exciting time for our UK and Ireland business and a great opportunity for Antonio to lead the next phase of our growth in both markets.”