She joined the association in December 2014 and has served as Clia’s acting CEO and executive vice president of membership and operations.

She will continue to oversee Clia’s operations globally while working with the senior leadership team on growing the organisation by uniting it and giving it a stronger voice globally.

Global Clia Chairman and president and chief operating officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises Adam Goldstein said: “Cindy has proven to be an extremely valuable and knowledgeable member of our executive team.

“Her extensive experience in the hospitality and travel industries, combined with her leadership skills and passion for the cruise industry, made her the right person to guide our global industry association on an exciting journey forward.”

D’Aoust added: “Now more than ever, it is important for the cruise industry to collaborate and create a stronger global voice.

“I look forward to building on the organisation’s current success and delivering on our mission to be the unified global organisation that helps our members succeed by advocating, educating and promoting for the common interests of the cruise community.”