Michael von Wittenau, a 23-year travel industry veteran who most recently served as director of business development and group sales for Crystal Cruises, has been named vice president of strategic business development for Signature Travel Network.
In his newly created post von Wittenau will be responsible for spearheading new initiatives to increase leisure sales, according to Michelle Morgan, president of Signature Travel. His career includes posts with American Hawaii Cruises and Sea Goddess as well as Pan Pacific Hotels. Signature Travel Network includes 180 member agencies and generates over $3 billion in annual travel sales.
Meanwhile, Crystal says it has not yet named a replacement for von Wittenau, but is "reallocating his responsibilities," according to Mimi Weisband, Crystal's vice president of public relations. While there is no timeframe set to hire someone to take von Wittenau's place, Weisband says they may look outside the cruise line or from within. In addition, a new position could possibly be formed. (GD & DE)