Senior Director Hotel Operations

Position Overview

The role encompasses the oversight of shipboard hotel operations, ensuring that guest experiences align with the brand's promise and standards. It involves direct communication with the managing director and various operational teams to foster collaboration and execution across all facets of hotel management on our river vessels.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the shipboard and shoreside hotel operations to provide outstanding experiences for guests and crew.
• Ensure safe, profitable, and efficient operation of each vessel, meeting established key performance indicators.
• Prepare weekly status reports for leadership evaluation.
• Monitor ship performance and analyze guest experience data, proposing necessary improvements.
• Conduct ship visits to assess guest experience and product success, facilitating cultural and regional customization.
• Represent hotel operations during situation management calls, making critical decisions to enhance guest experience.
• Review audit and inspection reports for continuous improvement opportunities.
• Support Hotel Directors in achieving performance targets through effective coaching and resources.
• Coordinate with marine operations for vessel maintenance and appearance standards.
• Identify market opportunities to enhance the guest experience and maintain competitive advantage.

Human Capital Management

• Oversee selection and scheduling of key management roles across assigned vessels.
• Conduct annual assessments and provide leadership coaching for hotel management teams.
• Collaborate with human resources to attract top-tier hospitality talent.
• Guide operational support to ensure alignment with product customization and crew requirements.

Qualifications

• A minimum of fifteen years in hospitality management, with significant experience in cruise lines.
• Five years in a managerial capacity as a Hotel Director or General Manager.
• Experience managing a diverse multicultural workforce.
• Fluency in English; proficiency in German is preferable.
• Strong understanding of shipboard hotel operations with the ability to thrive in fast-paced environments.
• Critical decision-making and crisis management skills coupled with strong analytical capabilities.
• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality or a related field is preferred; shipboard experience is advantageous.
• Proficient in various business software, particularly Microsoft Word and Excel.

Knowledge and Skills

• Demonstrates a customer-first philosophy, enhancing superior customer experiences.
• Exhibits enthusiasm and integrity, creating a positive and motivating work climate.
• Utilizes a global perspective in executing strategic initiatives while respecting cultural differences.
• Motivates and develops talent within the organization through transparent communication and coaching.
• Possesses a proven track record of achieving outstanding operational results.
• Applies critical thinking to assess potential solutions and approaches to challenges.

Financial Responsibilities

• Oversee financial performance at the fleet and ship levels, ensuring alignment with financial goals.
• Manage expenses for travel and support functions effectively.
• Provide support in financial planning, revenue generation, and budgeting to meet monthly targets.
• Ensure asset control measures are consistently implemented and upheld.
• Hold leadership accountable for managing operational costs and meeting revenue targets.