Istithmar World has appointed Manfred Ursprunger chief executive of its QE2 venture. The company will operate QE2 as a hotel and entertainment destination in Dubai beginning in 2009. The company takes delivery of the ship from Cunard in November 2008.
Ursprunger has almost 30 years experience in the cruise and hospitality industry. He has held senior positions with Norwegian Cruise Line, NCL America, Silversea Cruises, Holland America Line, Costa Crociere, Celebrity Cruises and Renaissance Cruises.