MSC Cruises, a global leader in the cruise industry, is taking significant strides toward reshaping the maritime sector. Founded in 1988 in Naples, Italy, as part of the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), the Swiss-Italian cruise line now operates out of Geneva, with additional offices in Naples, Genoa, and Venice. The company, helmed by founder Gianluigi Aponte, is expanding its focus to embrace a more inclusive maritime economy, and one key initiative is the formation of its new Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Committee.
In a landmark move, MSC Cruises has appointed Kenya’s maritime legal expert and former Permanent Secretary for Maritime and Blue Economy, Ambassador Nancy Karigithu, to the committee. The appointment reflects MSC Cruises’ commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive work environment, aligning with global trends in the maritime industry.
In a LinkedIn post, MSC Cruises ‘’We’re thrilled to introduce our new Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Committee at MSC Cruises. This dynamic team, consisting of internal leaders and external experts, is dedicated to driving meaningful change across our organization and fleet.’’
The post further emphasized the company’s dedication to building a workplace where everyone feels valued and heard. MSC Cruises has made it clear that this step is integral to enhancing its workplace culture across all levels of its operations.
‘’At MSC Cruises, we are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone feels valued and heard.’’
Amb. Karigithu, upon accepting the role, expressed her honor and excitement at being part of such a transformative mission.
‘’I am truly honored at the opportunity to serve on this highly esteemed Committee, the opportunity to contribute to such a transformative mission is not only exciting and humbling, but is also incredibly meaningful to me,’’ said Amb. Karigithu.
She added, ‘’Joining forces with such an esteemed group of like-minded individuals who are all committed to the cause, is very empowering, and I cannot fully express how excited I am at the possibilities that lie ahead. Thank you MSC Cruises for lighting and leading this path.’’
MSC Cruises echoed her sentiments, describing the creation of this advisory committee as a key milestone in their ongoing journey to enhance diversity and inclusion.
‘’This is a key step in our ongoing journey to enhance diversity and inclusion throughout our company. We’re excited about the positive impact this committee will have on our workplace culture and look forward to sharing our future progress.’’ The company stated.
In addition to Ambassador Karigithu, the committee includes prominent figures such as Lucy Ellis, Chief Communications Officer at MSC Cruises; Magali Bertolucci, Head of Diversity, Inclusion, and Wellbeing; Captain Giuseppe Cocurullo, Human Resources Manager and Marine Master; Maria Grazia Fancello, Chief Human Resources Officer of the Cruise Division at MSC Group; and several others. Their collective expertise and leadership are set to drive impactful change within MSC Cruises and the broader maritime industry.
The appointment of Ambassador Karigithu to this committee is a significant recognition of Kenya’s growing influence in global maritime affairs, positioning her as a key player in driving positive change within the sector.
