Chris Austin

Chris Austin has an extensive work experience in the travel and hospitality industry. Chris started their career in 1987 at Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, where they held various sales roles and worked in both London and New York offices. In 1998, they joined Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc, where they served as Vice President of NA Leisure Sales and later as Vice President of Global Customer Partnerships. Chris created sales and marketing initiatives for the leisure sales segment and managed a budget of over $4M. In 2017, Chris joined Seabourn Cruise Line as the SVP Global Sales and Marketing, where they were responsible for global sales, marketing, brand, and public relations strategy. Chris led a global team across disciplines. Currently, they are the Chief Sales Officer (CSO) at Explora Journeys, where they lead the global sales team and contributes to redefining ocean travel for a new generation of explorers.

Chris Austin attended Bournemouth University from 1983 to 1987, where they pursued a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Hospitality Administration/Management.