Lucy Ellis has been appointed as Chief Communications Officer for MSC Cruises, taking over from Luca Biondolillo who is leaving the company at the end of August to pursue a new professional opportunity.

Lucy will be responsible for leading the company’s global communications strategy, overseeing internal and external communications and managing corporate reputation. Having already worked for MSC Cruises for nearly eight years this internal promotion is a recognition of her proven leadership and expertise.

A seasoned international communications professional with more than 20 years of strategic communications experience she previously held the role of SVP at Weber Shandwick and Associate Director at H&K Strategies consulting for global organisations such as Unilever, Mondelez and Nestlé.

Gianni Onorato, CEO MSC Cruises said: “I am proud to announce Lucy’s new appointment as it recognises the investment we make in our people to enable them to grow within our organisation. Lucy’s extensive experience as well as her knowledge of the business and industry made her the natural successor for this role.”

Onorato added: “Together with the MSC family around the world, I want to thank Luca for his commitment and dedication over the last nine years and we wish him the very best with his new endeavours.”

Lucy Ellis said: “I’m thrilled to take on this role. MSC Cruises is an inspiring and very special business; we have a team of talented people and an exciting vision and I look forward to leading the work of our dynamic global communications department.”