Viking, a stalwart in the travel industry, has recently undergone a significant leadership transition with the departure of Michele Saegesser, their longstanding vice president of sales and national accounts. After over 25 years with the company and a prolific career that spanned 45 years in the travel sector, Saegesser has embarked on a new chapter in her professional journey. This shift opens the door to Erik De La Cruz and Mike Eng, whose promotions signal Viking’s commitment to innovation and sustained growth in challenging economic times.
Promoting from Within: A Nod to Experience and Loyalty
In a strategic move that underscores the company’s belief in cultivating talent internally, Erik De La Cruz has stepped up to oversee Viking’s North American sales team, the inside sales team, and the groups department. De La Cruz brings 15 years of experience to the table, during which he has played an integral role in forging strategic partnerships that have undoubtedly bolstered Viking’s market position. His promotion is not just a reward for loyalty but also a forecast of the company’s direction—leveraging established talent who truly understand the organization’s ethos.
Similarly, Mike Eng has been elevated to manage national account partnerships, trade marketing, and technology efforts. With a decade-long stint at Viking, Eng’s promotion not only honors his contributions but also highlights his crucial role in enhancing the company’s visibility within the travel industry. His previous leadership of the trade marketing team demonstrates Viking’s commitment to a well-rounded approach to market presence, ensuring that their strategies remain relevant and effective.
A Legacy of Excellence: Saegesser’s Impact on Viking
Saegesser has been more than just a figurehead at Viking; she has been a beacon of growth, leaving behind a legacy that speaks volumes about her dedication and expertise. Her recent recognition with the Lifetime Achievement Award from Travel Weekly is a testament to her significant influence in molding Viking’s international sales strategy and fostering an environment where innovation could flourish. As the industry witnesses such transitions, it becomes clear that the caliber of leadership directly correlates with a company’s ability to adapt and thrive. Saegesser’s departure marks not an end, but a transformative shift that lets a fresh wave of leaders usher Viking into a promising future.
Healthy Performance Indicators: A Bright Future for Viking
In his latest earnings call, Viking demonstrated remarkable growth, with a total revenue of $5.33 billion, reflecting a 13% year-over-year increase. The impressive number of advanced bookings for 2025, which soared to $5.31 billion—an increase of 26% compared to the previous year—speaks volumes about consumer confidence and Viking’s alluring offerings. These figures not only signify a successful business model but also present an optimistic outlook for the company as they adapt to new leadership and evolving market dynamics.
With the appointment of De La Cruz and Eng, Viking seems poised to leverage its strong foundation and explore new avenues for growth. The departure of a longstanding leader, while challenging, can often be the catalyst for innovative strategies that elevate a brand’s presence in an ever-competitive travel landscape.
Leave a Reply