BASEL OFFICE - Director Port Operations - Ocean
Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused voyages on oceans, rivers and lakes around the world. Designed for experienced travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences for The Thinking Person®.
Viking has more than 250 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers, #1 for Oceans and #1 for Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler and voted at the top of its categories by Travel + Leisure. No other cruise line has ever received these same honors by both publications at the same time.
Please note that we can only accept applicants who are eligible to work in Switzerland or in possession of a valid work permit.
ROLE DESCRIPTION
• Viking Cruises' growing Ocean Operations team is seeking talented people to build a company that drives excellence in fulfilling our guests’ desire to explore the world in comfort. If you're the kind of person who thrives in a collaborative and curious environment and jumps at the opportunity to take on new challenges and develop your professional skills, Viking Cruises may be the place for you.
• We are currently recruiting for a newly established role, Director – Port Operations, to join our team at our headquarters in Basel, Switzerland. In this role, you will report to the Executive Director – Port Operations & Government Relations and be responsible for supervising the day-to-day activities of the port operations department. You will work closely with the members of the port operations team to ensure that Viking’s Ocean and Expedition ships and our guests and crew have the best conditions in more than 300 different ports visited around the world.
• The ideal candidate will either have experience leading operational teams in shipping, port- or air-related industry, alternatively have strong leadership experience from other organizations. Previous experience from the cruise industry will be an advantage.
• As the organization is set for rapid growth in the coming years a desire to grow professionally and take on more responsibility over time will be important in this role.
• This role is located in Basel, Switzerland. Please note that we can only accept candidates who are eligible to work in Switzerland or are position to be issued a relevant work permit by the Swiss authorities.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Oversee day-to-day activities in the port operations team, including berth and itinerary scheduling, guest turn-around logistics, port cost management, port & destination permitting and more.
• Drive seasonal preparations for ship’s trading regions across the world.
• Ensure port cost management is in line with budget and management expectations.
• Manage and publish periodic reports related to operational performance metrics across Ocean Operations.
• Collaborate with Directors and Leadership across the department in building improvement solutions and implementation plans.
KEY QUALIFICATIONS
• 5 – 10 year leadership experience from relevant industry / organization.
• Strong command of Microsoft’s software suite for production and communication, including Teams, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Familiarity with digital compliance and maintenance programs, alongside other modern maritime digital tools.
• Possesses exceptional interpersonal skills with a proactive approach and exhibits a tactful and diplomatic demeanor.
• Strong leadership with a robust work ethic, a commitment to continuous improvement, and readiness to make decisive choices and lead teams effectively. Well rounded leadership skills to adapt in a multi-cultural team working with service providers in ports worldwide.
• Excellent command of English language – both spoken and written.
• A robust analytical skill set coupled with a curious mind and strong negotiations skill.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Deadline-driven, organized and able to multitask and work independently.
• Strong verbal, written and presentation skills.
• You are comfortable dealing with senior stakeholders and driving team performance.
EDUCATION
• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field will be an asset, but relevant work experience will also be considered.
NICE TO HAVE QUALIFICATIONS
• Out-of-the-box, critical, strategic and creative thinking.
• Flexibility and willingness for cooperation and teamwork.
• Reliable and stress-resistant.
• Ability to craft presentations on diverse topics.
CULTURE & BENEFITS
• Fast-growing and dynamic environment, a modern workspace, flexible working hours
HOW TO APPLY
Please apply via our website www.vikingcareers.com, including your CV in English and a one-page cover letter to introduce yourself and your interest for the role.
For more details about this position, contact Marta Pikusa under +41 61 638 60 11
