MIAMI (PRWEB) October 02, 2014
Starboard Cruise Services is pleased to announce that Patrick Gates has been appointed as the new Chief Merchandising Officer. In this new role, he will lead the strategic vision for merchandising, planning and distribution.
As an accomplished and experienced retail leader, Gates brings more than 25 years of executive leadership in global merchandising, product development, luxury, planning and distribution. He has held senior roles in traditional retail organizations, such as Barney’s New York and Neiman Marcus and has also led multi-channel retail environments, such as the Home Shopping Network (HSN), QVC, AOL and Discovery Commerce (Discovery Communications' retail division). Most recently, Gates served as the Chief Commercial Officer for Spiegel LLC, where he led the implementation of new Direct to Consumer platforms, marketing strategies as well as creating incremental businesses and channels of distribution. Gates is a driver of positive change, innovation, people leadership and has distinguished himself with a proven record of success across every major retail platform.
“Patrick’s retail experience is unmatched in the industry and we are excited to have someone of his caliber joining the Starboard team,” said Starboard president and CEO Beth Neumann. “He will be instrumental in elevating the onboard shopping experience and helping guests create special memories of their dream vacation.”
Gates attended the University of Natal in Durban, South Africa and completed several strategic management courses at Harvard University. He has also served as a guest lecturer for MBA programs at Georgetown, Maryland and George Mason Universities. Gates relocates to Miami from New Jersey.
ABOUT STARBOARD CRUISE SERVICES
Starboard Cruise Services is the premier onboard retailer, offering cruise ship guests the world’s finest selection of luxury and prestige brands. Starboard also features exclusive products and one-of-a-kind collections, all with tax and duty free savings. Founded in 1958, Starboard Cruise Services is headquartered in Miami, with offices in Genoa and Hong Kong. They provide service to over 90 ships, representing cruise lines worldwide, including: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Lines, Costa Cruises, Holland America Line and Pullmantur Cruises. Starboard’s mission is to deliver an unforgettable shopping experience to cruise vacationers filled with entertainment, discovery and memories. Starboard Cruise Services is proud to be part of LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, world leader in luxury.
http://www.starboardcruise.com
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