McAlister will join the Southampton-based line in August after 24 years at Tui.
Carnival UK president Sture Myrmell said: “We are delighted to have someone of Katie’s calibre join Cunard at this vital time of expansion.
“Her commercial and operational experience as well as digital transformation expertise and strategic oversight will build on the current team’s exceptional work to ensure that Cunard’s brand and growth opportunities are maximised as we look forward to the introduction of Queen Anne next year.”
“This was an unrivalled opportunity to join an iconic travel company at a key point in its history. I am so looking forward to joining the team as it widens its appeal and expands its guest base whilst retaining its renowned luxury, signature touches," added McAlister.
McAlister began her Tui career in 1998 and has held a number of roles across the business including overseas delivery, commercial, digital and marketing.
She is a member of the UK & Ireland board and leads sales channels and marketing in for the Tui, First Choice and Marella Cruises brands alongside a global responsibility for digital marketing.
McAlister will be replaced by Neil Swanson, Tui’s global e-commerce director, who joined the company in 2001.
Andrew Flintham, Tui UK and Ireland managing director, thanked McAlister for her “significant and lasting contributions to our business” across her various roles.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Katie for everything she’s delivered during her time at Tui and wish her every success in her next role,” he said.
“At Tui we’re incredibly lucky to have a wealth of talented senior leaders, and I’m delighted we’ve been able to promote Neil Swanson onto the Tui UK and Ireland board of directors as the chief marketing officer. Neil brings a wealth of experience to his new role, and I look forward to working closely with him,” added Flintham.
