US/INTERNATIONAL. Starboard Cruise Services has named jewellery industry veteran Caryl Capeci as SVP Fine Jewelry & Watches, and Benito Mendez as SVP Merchandising and Planning.
The LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton company said its strengthening of the senior leadership team “reinforces its investment in the positive outlook for cruise retail”.
Capeci joined Starboard as a strategic advisor earlier this year. Before joining Starboard, she was CEO of Chow Tai Fook North America (CTFNA), the parent company that operates diamond jewellery brands Hearts On Fire and Mémoire. Capeci also held multiple leadership positions at Hearts On Fire before becoming President in 2016.
Capeci’s career spans both jewellery and cruise, leading the agency marketing teams for DeBeers Diamonds at JWT and then Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises as an EVP at Havas/Arnold.
Starboard said her appointment to lead the Fine Jewelry & Watches business “aims to reinforce the company’s commitment to being the best-in-class retail at sea business partner for these significant categories.
With the strong rebound of the cruise industry, luxury retail at sea is perfectly positioned to capture a greater share of the fine jewellery and watch market, providing brands a highly unique and experiential approach to retail, where guests can learn and appreciate a brand throughout the voyage, and mark their vacation experience with a special purchase”.
Mendez returns to Starboard as the Vice President of Merchandising and Planning, having previously been at the company for 16 years within multiple senior roles. Formerly, he led the retail strategy, product development, ecommerce and licensing for Hard Rock International, a global entertainment organisation.
His professional journey started at Macy’s in the executive management programme where he held various merchandising roles. He will work closely with the company’s portfolio of product brand partners.
Starboard Cruise Services President and CEO Lisa Bauer said: “Caryl and Benito’s robust experience in their respective fields are key additions to our leadership team to help drive our continued growth. Caryl’s unique leadership background in the jewellery industry, combined with the high demand for luxury retail offerings and experiences onboard, made her transition into the Starboard family very organic.
“We are thrilled to welcome Benito back. His significant cruise retail experience, diverse skill set, leadership abilities, and passion for excellence are a perfect fit for our leadership team.” ✈
