American Cruise Lines’ Susan Shultz-Gelino Retires: Melissa Young Joins the Rapidly Growing Cruise Line

WHY IT RATES: Shultz-Gelino helped develop the largest domestic cruise line in the country, now with 17 small ships operating in 35 states.—Patrick Clarke, TravelPulse Senior Editor

American Cruise Lines announced today that Susan Shultz-Gelino, Vice President of Trade Relations, has retired after several decades with the company.

A highly respected industry veteran, Susan began her career in travel with American Cruise Lines in the 1980s. Among her countless achievements, Susan established and led American’s sales department to record numbers through the company’s early years. Susan developed strong trade partnerships industry-wide and also established a growing team of Business Development Managers.

American Cruise Lines grew to become the largest domestic cruise line in the country during Susan’s tenure, now with 17 small ships operating in 35 states. 

“Susan has been an extraordinary business partner and remains a dear friend. Her retirement comes at a poignant moment in our company’s history. When Susan joined American Cruise Lines, we had one small ship named American Eagle. She concludes her career more than 20 ships later with the introduction of the newest American Eagle. We are excited to see Susan pass the baton to Melissa and look forward building on the strong foundation Susan set,” said Charles B. Robertson, President & CEO of American Cruise Lines.

Joining American Cruise Lines is Melissa Young who will lead the company’s agency partnerships and trade relations as the Director of Business Development. She will take over the national network of Business Development Managers and lead the Line’s sales into the future. Melissa has worked in the travel industry for many years, most recently serving as North American Director of Sales for Red Carnation Hotels.

Melissa Young, American Cruise Lines new Director of Business Development. (Photo Credit: American Cruise Lines)

In her capacity there, Melissa represented the company’s collection of award-winning luxury boutique hotels, developed strategic partnerships, and customized sales and marketing plans to drive sales through all distribution channels: DMCs, tour operators, wholesalers, travel agency owners/managers and travel advisors. American Cruise Lines welcomes Melissa to the team and looks forward to her travel expertise working with award-winning global brands.

“I am thrilled to be joining American Cruise Lines, a market leader that has broadened the domestic cruise market beyond anything seen before. I am dedicated to growing sales with travel advisors, fortifying our trade partnerships, and cultivating exciting new collaborations,” said Melissa Young, Director of Business Development.

SOURCE: American Cruise Lines press release. 

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