How long have you been in the business? I started with Wardair in 1988 in cargo and moved to Delta in cargo, then sales, and now I’ve been with Carnival since 2003.
What’s the best part of the job? I get to do a lot of cruising. My favourite ship, I’d have to say, is the Carnival Dream. It’s a very cool ship – I love the outdoor promenade that runs along the outside of the ship.
What was your first job? I was a fish room attendant at a pet shop. You know, put the kid’s goldfish in the bag and send her up to the cash. That was me.
Ever had a brush with fame? Recently I was on my way to Munich and the entire US Olympic team was on board, and sitting next to me was Lindsay Vaughn. She’s even more beautiful in person, very nice, polite and humble.
Any guilty pleasures? Yes. Big ticket electronics. I love large flat-screen TVs and we have 3 or 4. It must be a guy thing.
What’s your favourite airline? Other than Wardair? (laughs) It would have to be Virgin Atlantic, because of the onboard amenities, the service. And Richard Branson is such a cool guy.
What’s your favourite all-time movie? That’s a tough one because I love movies, but I’d have to say Planes, Trains and Automobiles.
What was your worst holiday? We were in Florida during Hurricane Charlie and holed up in a hotel near Orlando Airport as the eye of the storm rumbled over top.
What keeps you awake at night? Selfishly? Land-based deals. (laughs)
What will be the biggest challenge for the industry in the next 12 months? Without a doubt, creating a demand. There are so many new ships coming on line, we need to get the correct message out there to the consumer of why choose to cruise.
What is it that Carnival does to retain staff? The big thing is the fun workplace. It’s all about fun. If you’re not having fun, why bother?
If you could sit next to anyone on a long haul flight who would it be? Warren Buffet. I could use some financial tips!
How much do you travel each year? Now more than ever. As much as half the time.
Who’s the smartest person you know? He’s no longer alive, but my Dad. He knew a little bit about everything, and was a whiz with numbers. A human calculator.
What do you hope to be doing in 10 years? Still with Carnival, but a more senior position.
