Your Purpose
The Director of Operations is accountable for the design, mobilization, opening and ongoing operation of large-scale cruise and hospitality infrastructure assets. The role ensures continuity from development through steady-state operations, acting as the operational owner from early construction phases through long-term performance. Working in parallel with Development, Construction and Guest Experience, the Director of Operations guarantees that assets are operable by design, fully ready at opening, and sustainably efficient, safe and profitable thereafter.
Your Impact
* Operational Leadership Across the Asset Lifecycle
o Own end-to-end operational responsibility from pre‑opening through live operations.
o Define the long‑term operating vision, KPIs and service standards.
o Ensure continuity of design, culture and systems from project phase into steady‑state operations.
* Pre‑Opening & Mobilization (Parallel to Construction)
o Lead the operational readiness program aligned with construction milestones.
o In coordination with Corporate Guest Services (F&B, HK, Entertainment etc.), define procurement needs and implement it. FFE/OWS.
o Influence design decisions to ensure operational efficiency, safety and maintainability.
o Establish operating structures, SOPs and governance well ahead of opening.
o Manage handovers from construction to operations, including phased turnovers.
o For each project, identify personnel needs and— in conjunction with HR—ensure the operational ability of new assets. Establish training programs for operational readiness.
* Post‑Opening Operations Management
o Direct daily operations across all departments (hospitality, F&B, retail, attractions, marine, security, maintenance, guest services).
o Ensure delivery of guest experience, safety, service quality and brand standards.
o Drive operational stability during ramp‑up and maturity phases.
o Lead continuous improvement initiatives across the asset.
* Workforce, Training & Culture
o Build, lead and retain a high‑performing, multi‑national workforce.
o Maintain and evolve training programs post‑opening.
o Embed a safety‑first, service‑oriented and performance‑driven culture.
* Financial & Commercial Performance
o Own operational P&L, cost controls and productivity metrics.
o Manage operating budgets, capex planning and lifecycle reserves.
o Collaborate with commercial teams to optimize revenue (F&B, retail, experiences, shore excursions where applicable).
* Compliance, Safety & Risk Management
o Ensure ongoing compliance with all regulatory, maritime, health, safety and environmental standards.
o Lead emergency preparedness, crisis management and business continuity planning.
o Serve as the accountable executive for audits and inspections.
Your Journey so far
* 15+ years senior operations leadership in hospitality, cruise destinations, resorts, ports, theme parks or large hospitality assets.
* Demonstrated ownership of both pre‑opening and long‑term operations.
* Strong background working alongside development, construction and technical services teams.
* Experience in Caribbean or island environments strongly preferred.
Your Essentials
* Operational readiness & lifecycle operations
* Large‑scale workforce leadership
* Financial & P&L accountability
* Asset lifecycle & maintenance management
* Multi‑operator and concession management
Our commitment
We are committed to building a future that values diverse perspectives, embraces the world beyond borders, and fosters an inclusive environment where every individual feels valued, respected and empowered to be their authentic selves. Our commitment extends to taking meaningful, measurable actions that have a long‑term positive impact on our guests, our employees and our planet.
Ready to join us?
Ready to turn your passion into something extraordinary? Join us at MSC Cruises, where new opportunities await. Apply today to be part of a global team that is pushing boundaries and achieving something remarkable. Your journey starts here!
#J-18808-Ljbffr