A Royal Caribbean Group executive focused on the company's interests in Europe and Asia will soon look after the Cruise Lines International Association's (CLIA) affairs in Europe.

Ukko Metsola, Royal Caribbean's vice president for government relations in Europe and Asia-Pacific since 2016, has been appointed CLIA's director-general in Europe.

He will start his new role on 1 September to replace Tom Boardley, CLIA's outgoing secretary-general for Europe.

During his previous political career, Ukko held senior positions in the Finnish Parliament and in the Finnish Prime Minister’s Office, CLIA said.

He is a graduate of the University of Helsinki and the Harvard Kennedy School, where he studied with a Fulbright scholarship.

“I want to thank Tom Boardley for his contribution throughout his tenure as secretary-general, and especially for his leadership in Europe during this global crisis," CLIA chief executive Kelly Craighead said in a statement.

"Tom will continue his association with CLIA in an advisory role and will assist with Ukko’s transition.

"As we move into the next critical stage of our return to service, I am delighted that Ukko Metsola has agreed to lead us in Europe and drive forward our industry engagement with the EU Institutions."

Metsola said he looks forward to representing the industry in Europe, given its diversity of business and employment opportunities.

"With its strong European roots and commitment to innovation, collaboration and sustainability, the cruise industry can contribute to the future economic recovery and partner constructively in the European green growth agenda," he said in a statement.