HX, the cruise line formerly known as Hurtigruten Expeditions, has hired Gebhard Rainer to be its CEO.
Rainer, currently the CEO of Sandals Resorts International, will stay with Sandals through June 30.
In a statement, Sandals said it is "appreciative of Rainer's numerous contributions to the organization during his six-year tenure and wishes him continued success. Forward, the existing leadership team, led by executive chairman Adam Stewart, will take on additional responsibilities as it evaluates its long-term needs."
Rainer's appointment comes as the expedition cruise line continues a transition as a stand-alone brand separate from Hurtigruten, a specialist in Norwegian coastal cruises. HX is establishing an independent management team.
Rainer succeeds Daniel Skjeldam, who had served as CEO for both Hurtigruten Group and HX during the early phases of the expedition line's transition. He will shift to the role of Hurtigruten Group board member on July 15.
"With the split between Hurtigruten and HX in its final phase, I believe the timing is ideal to bring in a dedicated CEO for HX to develop the company to its full potential," Skjeldam said.
Rainer's appointment is a key component of the brand's strategic plan due to his leadership experience, knowledge of the U.S. market and success running Sandals, a company with strong ties to the travel trade, Skjeldam said.
Rainer began at Sandals in 2018. Before Sandals hired Rainer, he was Hyatt's CFO.
Christina Jelski contributed to this report.