Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Names John Chidsey to Board

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has named John Chidsey as an independent director on its Board of Directors, commencing on February 5, 2025. Chidsey previously served on the Board from 2013 to 2022 and will now hold the position of Chairperson of the Nominating and Governance Committee and member of the Audit Committee. With this new appointment, a significant majority of the Board, seven out of eight members, are independent.

Harry Sommer, the company’s president and CEO, commended Chidsey’s extensive experience in managing large operations, financial matters, and corporate strategy, acquired during his previous roles as CEO of Subway and Burger King. Sommer expressed excitement about Chidsey’s return to the Board as an independent director and highlighted the value of his seasoned industry knowledge in navigating the challenges unique to the cruise sector.

Most recently, Chidsey retired as CEO of Subway Restaurants after a five-year tenure that ended in late 2024. Prior to that, he held leadership positions at Burger King Holdings, Inc., including roles as President and Chief Financial Officer. Chidsey also contributed to Cendant Corporation as Chairman and CEO of two major divisions – the Vehicle Services Division and the Financial Services Division, overseeing brands such as Avis Rent A Car, Budget Rent A Car Systems, PHH, Wright Express, and Jackson Hewitt. His earlier career included senior financial leadership positions at PepsiCo.

Chidsey’s extensive board service includes roles at Encompass Health Corporation, Burger King Holdings as Chairman, and Brinker International. He is well-educated, holding an MBA in Finance and Accounting and a J.D. from Emory University, along with a B.A. from Davidson College.

Furthermore, the Board of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is actively seeking another member to join its ranks in the near future.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH) is a major player in the global cruise industry, operating Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. The company boasts a combined fleet of 32 ships offering approximately 66,500 berths and traveling to about 700 destinations around the world. NCLH is planning to introduce 13 new ships across its three brands by 2036, thus adding approximately 41,000 berths to its fleet.

It is important to note that certain statements, estimates, and projections within this announcement are considered “forward-looking statements” under U.S. federal securities laws. These forward-looking statements involve various risks, uncertainties, and factors that may impact actual results, performance, or achievements differently than anticipated. Potential risks related to these statements are outlined in the company’s recent SEC filings.

In conclusion, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings looks forward to the valuable contributions that John Chidsey will bring to the Board of Directors with his vast experience and expertise. His appointment demonstrates the company’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team and navigating the continually evolving cruise industry landscape.