Royal Caribbean Group has named Dr Calvin Johnson as its global head of public health and chief medical officer.

In the newly-created role, he will lead the cruise giant’s global health and wellness policy across its brands Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara and Silversea.

Johnson will manage the group’s public health and clinical practice, and determine its strategic plans and operations of its global healthcare organisation as well as collaborate with the Healthy Sail Panel which also involves representatives of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.

Richard Fain, chairman and chief executive of Royal Caribbean Group, said: “Calvin’s extensive experience in public health and clinical care will help us raise the bar on protecting the health of our guests, crew and the communities we serve.”

Dr Johnson was most recently principal at Altre Strategic Solutions Group and has previously served as chief medical officer for of correctional health care provider Corizon Health and for Temple University Health System.

He was also secretary of health for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania from 2003-2008 and was medical director for the New York City Department of Health from 1998-1999.

Johnson has previously led response efforts during active infectious disease outbreaks and was responsible for ensuring all aspects of patient care while overseeing a clinical operation with 1,300 caregivers and more than 300,000 individuals.

He said: “Royal Caribbean Group is committed to going beyond requirements. I am excited to join the industry leader, who is clearly establishing the way forward in managing public health initiatives and protecting health and safety.

Johnson added: “The Healthy Sail Panel is doing critical work to help us develop enhanced standards, and achieve readiness for the return to service, and I am looking forward to being involved in that work.”

Royal Caribbean Group senior vice president for safety, security, environment, medical and public health, Jennifer Love, added: “Calvin will add critical expertise in our mission to elevate the quality of care. His appointment is a testament to our commitment to transforming healthcare for those we serve.”