Carnival UK has named Sture Myrmell as its new president, effective from 18 October.

Myrmell, who will transition from his role as president of P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Australia, will replace Simon Palethorpe, who is leaving the organisation after six years.

Carnival confirmed that Myrmell be based in Southampton and will also serve temporarily as president of Cunard during the recruitment for that position.

He will report directly to Josh Weinstein, chief operations officer for Carnival Corporation, who also has responsibility for Carnival UK.

In his new role, Myrmell will lead all performance and operational aspects of Carnival UK, the UK’s largest cruise operator.

In addition, as interim president of Cunard, he will directly oversee Cunard’s operations and its three ships.

Myrmell said: “I am honoured to join the passionate and dedicated Carnival UK team that delivers extraordinary holiday experiences to our guests every day.

“Carnival UK has been at the forefront of the industry for decades, and I look forward to working with our shipboard and shoreside personnel to continue our leadership role in the industry, while providing great holidays for our P&O Cruises and Cunard guests.”

Weinstein said: “Sture is a two-decade-plus veteran at our company, so we look forward to him bringing his deep experience, excellent leadership skills and proven track record of success to a new leadership opportunity.

“He will play a crucial role in our success in the UK, and we look forward to his contributions as we deliver to our guests the best holiday experiences in the world and as both  brands launch new ships, including LNG-powered Arvia for P&O Cruises in December 2022.”

Speaking about Palethorpe, Weinstein added: “Simon has been a true asset for the company these past years and we wish him the best with this new opportunity.

“He successfully revitalised the Cunard brand and then ably stepped into the role of president of Carnival UK for the past 15 months, leading both P&O Cruises and Cunard back into guest operations this summer with the Carnival UK executive team.”