• 2 min de lectura
• 2 min de lectura
Leo Chang, a Lindblad Expeditions veteran with finance/private equity experience, was appointed CEO of Star Clippers to oversee operations, growth initiatives, global market presence expansion and brand development.
"Leo has incredible passion for our unique and authentic style of travel," said Eric Krafft, owner and current CEO. "His deep understanding of small ship cruising operations and its expanding market opportunity, combined with his forward-thinking leadership style make him the ideal leader to continue the Star Clippers legacy. Our travel advisor partners and loyal guests can look forward to a continued commitment to product excellence, impeccable service and operational innovation."
Krafft will remain closely involved as an engaged owner and executive chairman. His father Mikael Krafft, a passionate yachtsman, founded the company in 1989.
Chang served as chief business development officer at Lindblad Expeditions, where he led corporate development and strategic planning, driving key fleet growth initiatives and expanding the land-based adventure travel portfolio.
He is a senior advisor for DCP Capital and served as CFO at Frontida BioPharm, partner at Kingsley Capital Partners and head of leveraged finance at ISM Capital. Earlier, during 18 years at Jefferies, an investment banking and capital markets firm, he held senior positions including SVP of the leveraged finance group.
"Star Clippers is one of the most unique and differentiated travel companies in the world, offering an authentic tall ship experience that connects travelers deeply with the heritage of the sea," Chang said. "I am incredibly honored to lead this iconic and beloved company.
"As we look to the future, our mission will be to elevate our guest experience, broaden our global reach and continue innovating intimate, sustainable voyages that larger vessels simply cannot replicate," he continued, "all while remaining completely steadfast to the timeless spirit of wind-driven sailing."
