Hurtigruten appoints digital solutions head as it eyes international growth

Gerard Short joins expedition cruise operator having worked on the UK’s COVID testing programme

Norwegian expedition cruise operator Hurtigruten Group has appointed its first vice president of digital solutions as part of a ramping up of technology talent.

Gerard Short previously worked for KultraLab and NHS Digital where he was a senior member of the team that oversaw COVID-19 testing efforts in the UK.

Hurtigruten said Short will be part of our growing team that will “build the next generation of digital products for Hurtigruten Expeditions”.

The operator offers more than 250 destinations in over 30 countries including Antarctica, the Galapagos Islands and West Africa.

Short is among a number of senior digital hires at its London headquarters who will work on growing the international presence of the brand.

The firm described him as experienced in vision, strategy and execution, with him over 15 years of experience working in product development for some of the world’s biggest global brands.

Short said: “I am really excited to be joining Hurtigruten at a time of huge growth for the company.

“It’s track record on offering guests a sustainable and unique holiday experience is unmatched and I can’t wait to work on projects that will bring the guests even closer to the Hurtigruten experience whether it be online or from their mobile phones.”

Ole-Marius Moe-Helgesen, chief digital and people officer at Hurtigruten Group, added: “We are on a mission to recruit the best digital talent at our HQ2 offices in London and we are very excited to have Gerard on board.

“His depth of experience, knowledge and capabilities is a great addition to our growing and innovative team.

“We want to deliver the best digital journey possible and Gerard will be integral in the development and design of our brand-new website and guest app, which will significantly improve the experience of our guests when they book and board our sustainable ships.”