Genting Hong Kong has announced the appointment of travel industry veteran Tom Wolber as the president and chief executive of Crystal Cruises.

Wolber brings over three decades of experience in general management, operations, new-build construction and business development to Crystal during the company’s most significant expansion since its founding in 1988.

“Tom’s proven leadership skills will be invaluable to Crystal as the line takes delivery of four river ships in 2017 and 2018 as well as the first of the Endeavor Class expedition yachts in 2019,” said Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, chairman of Genting Hong Kong and Crystal Cruises.

“His leadership will be key to the finalisation of specifications and design for the new Exclusive Class oceangoing vessels.

“Tom has our full confidence and we look forward to working closely with him to ensuring Crystal remains unmatched in the luxury travel segment.”

Wolber joins Crystal most recently from the Walt Disney Company where he served in various executive roles for 28 years, ten of which were with Disney Cruise Line where he served as senior vice president of operations.

He was involved in transforming Disney Cruise Line from a Port Canaveral based vacation provider to a global cruise line with itineraries covering North America, the Mediterranean and the Baltic.

During his time at Disney, Wolber assisted with the successful design and launch of new builds including Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy.

Additionally, he served as president and chief executive of Euro Disney, Paris and has held senior executive positions in Disney theme parks and resort operations at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida.

“Crystal has developed a venerable reputation across the travel industry and my first responsibility will be continuing to deliver the world-class service and itineraries Crystal is renowned for,” said Wolber.

“I thank chairman Tan Sri Lim for placing his faith in me, and I look forward to spearheading some of the most innovative new-builds and experiences the cruise and hospitality industry has ever seen in the years ahead.”