Summary: AmaWaterways has expanded its executive team by appointing Virginia Suliman as chief technology officer and Michael “Kazem” Moghtader as chief people officer. The company says the hires support its focus on growth, innovation, and a seamless guest experience while strengthening its global workforce.

AmaWaterways has named two new senior leaders as it continues to prioritize growth and innovation. The river cruise line announced in Calabasas, CA that Virginia Suliman will serve as chief technology officer, while Michael “Kazem” Moghtader has been appointed chief people officer.

Leadership appointments at AmaWaterways

The company said the appointments are intended to reinforce its leadership bench as it invests in both digital capabilities and its people operations. AmaWaterways positioned the changes as part of a broader effort to improve how teams work and how guests experience trips, from planning through the end of a cruise.

Virginia Suliman named Chief Technology Officer

As chief technology officer, Virginia Suliman will lead AmaWaterways’ long-term technology strategy and guide its digital evolution. The company highlighted her background in senior technology roles, including her most recent position as chief information and digital officer at Invitation Homes, where she oversaw a large-scale digital transformation.

Before Invitation Homes, Suliman spent more than 20 years at Hilton and ultimately served as senior vice president of global software engineering, according to AmaWaterways.

“I’m thrilled to return to travel and join AmaWaterways at such an exciting time of growth. Technology and innovation help our team work smarter and allow our guests to enjoy every moment of their journey from start to finish.”

Michael “Kazem” Moghtader appointed Chief People Officer

Michael “Kazem” Moghtader joins AmaWaterways as chief people officer, bringing more than two decades of experience spanning human resources strategy, talent development, and organisational transformation. AmaWaterways said his background includes work across hospitality, healthcare, retail, and luxury industries.

Most recently, Moghtader served as chief people officer at Postcard Cabins, formerly Getaway. His prior roles include chief people officer at Conifer Health Solutions, vice president of human resources at Signet Jewelers, and leadership positions at JC Penney, Victoria’s Secret, and Banana Republic.

AmaWaterways river cruise ship docked at a port, illustrating the cruise line’s focus on guest experience and operations
AmaWaterways says new executive appointments will support technology investment and workforce development as the company grows.

In his new role, Moghtader will oversee the development of the company’s people function. AmaWaterways said his priorities will include attracting and developing talent, improving the employee experience, and putting systems and practices in place to support continued growth.

“AmaWaterways has built something truly special – not just for guests, but for the people behind the experience. As we continue to grow, my focus is on creating an environment where employees feel supported, connected, and proud of the role they play.”

Focus on technology, talent, and guest experience

AmaWaterways said the two appointments align with its efforts to deliver a seamless guest experience while also strengthening and empowering its global workforce. The company framed the hires as complementary: one centered on long-term technology direction and digital change, and the other on people strategy and organisational support.

“Virginia and Kazem bring incredible experience and vision to AmaWaterways. I am excited to see how their leadership will guide our investment in our teams and our technology as we continue to deliver the best possible guest experience on board and on shore.”

Key details at a glance

  • Virginia Suliman appointed chief technology officer; previously chief information and digital officer at Invitation Homes and senior vice president of global software engineering at Hilton.
  • Michael “Kazem” Moghtader appointed chief people officer; most recently chief people officer at Postcard Cabins (formerly Getaway) and previously held HR leadership roles at Conifer Health Solutions, Signet Jewelers, JC Penney, Victoria’s Secret, and Banana Republic.
  • AmaWaterways said the appointments support growth, innovation, and efforts to enhance both guest experience and employee experience.

Why this matters for travelers and the cruise industry

For travelers, executive moves like these can influence how smoothly a cruise experience runs—from digital touchpoints used before departure to service delivery on board and on shore. For the wider cruise sector, AmaWaterways’ emphasis on technology strategy and workforce development signals continued competition around operational efficiency, staff retention, and end-to-end guest experience as river cruising grows.