Former Compare the Market marketing boss joins Fred Olsen Cruise Lines as CMO
Mark Vile joins the travel company after 18 years at Compare the Market where he helped create the Meerkat brand platform.
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines has appointed former Compare the Market marketing boss Mark Vile as its new CMO.
Joining 24 November, Vile will be responsible for leading marketing and will report directly to CEO Samantha Stimpson. He succeeds previous marketing lead Sonia Holman who had held the title of ecommerce and marketing director.
On the appointment, Vile says he is “delighted” to be working with a brand with “such rich heritage and loyal guests”.
“I look forward to working with the team to build on that strong foundation and bring new energy, creativity and innovation to our marketing, helping to attract new guests while deepening the connection with those who already love the brand,” he adds.
Fred Olsen Cruise Lines is a UK-based cruise line that specialises in small-ship cruises with its fleet of four ships, which allows it to visit the smaller ports that larger ships cannot access.Compare the Market chief brand officer departs after 18 years
Stimpson notes that Vile’s “creativity, leadership and track record of innovation” make him a “fantastic addition” to the executive team.
“We are excited to welcome Mark to the team. His proven ability to build powerful, emotionally resonant brands and deliver data-driven growth will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen Fred Olsen’s connection with our guests and expand our reach,” she says.
Vile first joined Compare the Market in 2007 as marketing director and was promoted to CMO in 2017. He then moved into the newly created chief brand officer role in May 2024, following a restructure of the company’s marketing leadership. In July, he stepped down after 18 years with the business.‘It was a huge remit’: Why Compare the Market dropped the CMO role
He helped transform Compare the Market from a start-up to one of the country’s most well-known consumer brands. He was instrumental in creating the Meerkat brand platform and launched major loyalty and digital initiatives, including Meerkat Movies, Meerkat Meals and AutoSergei.
Prior to this, Vile held senior marketing roles at BGL Group, Thomas Cook and the Post Office.
The brand team at Compare the Market now report to the brand’s chief customer officer Tom Wallis.
