Area Manager, Port Adventures & Recreation Operations

Every day at Disney Cruise Line we take pride in bringing the magic of Disney to life. We find joy in creating cherished memories and form genuine connections with our guests. We hold each other to the highest degree and always act responsibly while ensuring the safety of fellow cast, crew and guests. United by our Disney values, we work toward excellence in all we do. As a part of our team, you can work in a diverse and inclusive environment amidst a professional and supportive community. If you are ready to create unforgettable experiences and grow as a person and as a professional, apply today.

The Area Manager, Port Adventures & Recreation Operations is responsible for overseeing and ensuring the smooth execution of all Port Adventure & Recreation activities on board Disney Cruise Line Ships.  This role requires leadership to enhance guest experiences, drive revenue growth, and maintain safety and security standards. The role will collaborate with various departments, lead a team of managers and coordinators, and contribute to operational consistency across shipboard and island locations.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee and ensure the smooth functioning of all Port Adventure & Recreation activities on board Disney Cruise Line Ship

• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance guest experiences and maximize revenue opportunities

• Collaborate with various departments to coordinate activities and ensure seamless integration of operations

• Ensure the implementation and maintenance of safety and security protocols across all areas of responsibility.

• Collaborate with relevant teams to establish and enforce safety guidelines and procedures.

• Conduct performance evaluations and create development plans to enhance team capabilities.

• Collaborate with Human Resources to identify and develop talent for shipboard and shore-based roles within the department.

• Implement succession planning strategies to ensure smooth transitions and maintain operational continuity.

• Contribute to the rotation and scheduling of staff in onboard Port Adventures, Island Recreation, and Animal Programming.

• Partner with Commercial/Port Strategy, Public Relations, Risk Management, Business Systems Management, and Experience Integration teams for operational integration, follow-up, and implementation efforts.

• Collaborate with the Product Development team, providing feedback on new and existing products for change management and adjusted product development.

• Provide leadership and guidance to Port Adventure Managers, Island Recreation Manager, Animal Programming Manager, and Coordinators across the fleet and islands.

• Foster teamwork, effective communication, and collaboration among the team members.

• Participate in the recruitment and selection process, ensuring the right skills and qualifications are identified.

• Lead safety initiatives and procedures, maintaining Safety Management System (SMS) procedures and LOG documentation.

• Lead all onboard operational development for future new builds and products.

• Provide input and insights to contribute to the improvement and enhancement of onboard experiences.

• Drive operational consistency across shipboard and island locations.

• Partner with DCL Island Operations, Worldwide Safety and Auditing, Ride and Show, and Parks & Resorts Aquatics for alignment and operational implementation.

• Serve as the operational DCL liaison with tour operators in ports of call.

• Travel to ships and islands regularly for training, audits, and operational oversight.

• Ensure compliance with company standards, identify areas for improvement, and implement necessary changes.

• Partner with the Product and Strategy team to identify key revenue drivers and develop strategies to maximize financial performance.

• Collaborate on the Annual Operating Plan (AOP) and operating budgets for Port Adventures and Island Recreation.

• Monitor and analyze financial performance, identifying areas for improvement and recommending appropriate actions.

• Provide input and insights on revenue generation opportunities, cost optimization, and budget planning processes.

Qualifications:

• 3 to 5+ years of leadership experience in shore excursion, recreation, sales, and/or marketing environments.

• Demonstrated experience working and leading others in a high-volume, fast-paced, global hospitality organization.

• Proven problem-solving abilities and sound decision-making skills in complex environments.

• Ability to create and maintain effective relationships with key partners, vendors, contractors, and industry organizations.

Desired Qualifications:

• Shipboard experience preferred.

Required Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in hospitality, tourism, business, sales, marketing, or equivalent experience.

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