About
With projects ranging from cruise port development in the Caribbean to services and technology for transportation logistics, Tom’s portfolio is versatile and wide-ranging in scale and geography. His expertise in operational efficiency on land and sea has been demonstrated in his roles within the cruise industry, the U.S. Coast Guard, and his work both within and as a liaison for local and federal governments.
Prior to launching his private consulting services, Tom served as the Vice President of Franchise Operations for Sea Tow Services International, Inc. where he was responsible for the quality of performance of the Sea Tow Franchise Network to maximize quality control, sales, satisfaction within the company’s network of owners, and strategic planning.
Over the years Mr. Spina has also served in multiple roles within the cruise industry. He was the Senior Vice President of Operations at Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line where he oversaw the Operations Department along with Ports and Destinations, Onboard Revenue, Marine & Technical, Food & Beverage, and Entertainment. He worked as Director of Business Development for the Global Ports and Destination Development Group for Carnival Corporation and was the Vice President of Port Operations, Finance, and Analysis at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.
Tom worked for the New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) as the Vice President of Cruise Ship Operations during Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s Administration. During his time there, Spina oversaw a massive $250 Million port renovation plan which spurred cruise ship growth in the harbor, expanded economic impact through brand diversity, and attracted year-round cruising from New York City.
During his nearly 25-year career in the maritime industry, Tom served as an active-duty U.S. Coast Guard Officer and a Senior Marine Surveyor for National Cargo Bureau, Inc. where he provided insight and direction to some of the world’s largest cargo and cruise vessels, including Hanjin, MSC, and Norwegian Cruise Line. He additionally served afloat as a 3rd Mate during Hurricane Katrina relief efforts in New Orleans.
A frequent presenter at cruise industry events, Tom continues to be an active participant in industry affairs. He has served as a member of the Cruise Professional Advisors Alliance, AAPA Cruise Committee, FCCA Operations Committee, and was a Passenger Vessel Sub-Committee member in New York Harbor during his time at NYCEDC as well as coordinated many high-profile events in New York Harbor.
Tom holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration in Marine Transportation from the State University of New York (SUNY) Maritime College and an unlimited tonnage 3rd Mates License to sail on any size vessel in the world. He is currently pursuing his master’s degree in International Transportation Management at SUNY Maritime.
