The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA), a leading organization representing cruise destinations and stakeholders across the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America, has announced the appointment of Marie McKenzie as the new Chair of its Operations Committee. McKenzie, who serves as Senior Vice President of Government & Destination Affairs at Carnival Corporation, steps into this influential role following unanimous approval by the committee.

Her selection reflects Carnival Corporation’s nomination for the rotating position, which changes every two years to ensure diverse representation among FCCA Member Lines. These lines collectively operate over 90% of the world’s cruise capacity.

McKenzie takes over from Daniel S. Farkas, Executive Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH). Farkas, who held the position for the past two years, will continue to play an active role within the committee, ensuring continuity in its mission to align industry priorities with regional development goals.

Known for her expertise in government relations and destination engagement, McKenzie’s leadership is expected to deepen collaboration between the cruise industry and the destinations it serves. Her role will focus on fostering partnerships, addressing regional challenges, and unlocking new opportunities for economic growth in cruise destinations.

This leadership transition highlights FCCA’s dedication to representing the shared interests of cruise lines and destinations while adapting to the evolving needs of the global cruise market. With McKenzie at the helm, the association aims to strengthen its impact and drive meaningful progress for all stakeholders involved.

“I am honored to step into the role of FCCA Operations Committee Chair and look forward to the next two years of collaboration and progress,” said McKenzie. “I want to thank Dan for his exceptional leadership and guidance, and I am proud to be the first woman to hold this position.” Having worked closely with the committee members, she understands that this role requires more than simply occupying a seat; “it’s about action, engagement and collective effort.”

“I invite all members to contribute their ideas, support, and partnership to drive meaningful impact in the region. I am eager to work together to serve and strengthen our cruise tourism community,” she stated.

A Visionary Leader with Defined Responsibilities

As Chair of the FCCA Operations Committee, Marie McKenzie will spearhead a range of impactful initiatives aimed at strengthening partnerships between cruise lines, destinations, and stakeholders. Her role encompasses hosting monthly meetings for committee members and FCCA partners, along with organizing online and in-person discussions with regional stakeholders.

McKenzie’s responsibilities also include leading site visits, conducting town hall meetings, and overseeing product evaluations. She will focus on educating both public and private sector partners about cruise industry practices and opportunities. Additionally, she will play a pivotal role in key FCCA events, such as the recently concluded PAMAC Cruise Summit aboard MSC Divina (January 6–10), the upcoming PAMAC Summit in Aruba (June 18–20), and the FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show, scheduled to return to San Juan, Puerto Rico, this fall (October 20–24).

Under her leadership, the Operations Committee will advance its core objectives, emphasizing tourism development, port operations, safety, and security while promoting a greater understanding of the cruise industry. McKenzie also aims to strengthen bilateral relationships with destination stakeholders to unlock new economic opportunities for ports and destinations, ultimately enriching the overall destination experience.

Michele Paige, CEO of FCCA, underscored McKenzie’s alignment with the Committee’s goals: “I am humbled by the continued commitment of FCCA Member Line executives and their dedication to our mission of strengthening mutual understanding and success with destinations and stakeholders. I believe that cause speaks personally to Marie, a Caribbean national and self-described ‘island woman’ and her perspective will steer us to an even brighter future for all.”

A Distinguished Career in the Cruise Industry

Marie McKenzie brings an impressive legacy of over 29 years of cruise industry expertise to her leadership role. Joining Carnival Corporation & plc in 1996, she has held a series of progressively senior positions, demonstrating exceptional leadership and vision. Currently serving as Senior Vice President of Government and Destination Affairs, McKenzie oversees the Caribbean, the company’s largest cruise market, forging strategic partnerships with governments, regional organizations, and local communities. Her work spans 27 countries and 57 ports, impacting an impressive 10 million cruise guests annually.

In her previous role as Vice President of Global Destinations, Services & Sourcing, McKenzie managed sourcing strategies and cultivated relationships with tour operators and port officials across over 720 ports worldwide. Earlier, as Vice President of Global Financial Planning and Analysis, she led strategic initiatives and directed complex financial operations across Carnival Corporation’s eight cruise brands.

Before joining Carnival Corporation’s corporate team, McKenzie played a pivotal role at Carnival Cruise Line. She served as Vice President of Financial Operations, overseeing the financial management of the line’s 22-ship fleet.

McKenzie’s professional journey began outside the cruise sector with Arthur Andersen LLP in Washington, DC. A proud Jamaican native, she holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting (cum laude) from Howard University and a master’s degree in international business (cum laude) from Florida International University.

Her illustrious career reflects a steadfast commitment to excellence, strategic leadership, and a passion for fostering global partnerships in the cruise industry.

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