Senior Cruise Manager

at  The Emirates Group

Job Purpose: Part of the Emirates Group, Arabian Adventures is far more than an award-winning provider of desert safaris in Dubai! We’re equipped to provide a wide range of exclusive tailor-made services - from planning, contracting hotel space, transfers, arrivals and in-resort assistance, to organising excursions and safaris and managing events.
Through our dedication to showcasing the region’s rich heritage and natural beauty, we invite travellers to embark on unforgettable and transformative explorations of this captivating destination. Our outstanding reputation, both for our creative approach and attention to detail, has made us the first choice for some of the world’s most reputed tour operators, incentive houses and cruise lines. Click here to join the adventure!
As the Senior Cruise Manager , you will manage the overall functioning of the cruise department, ensuring high levels of service and capitalizing on all business opportunities, within UAE and across the region. Contribute to the strategy development and lead all commercial discussions and negotiations with cruise clients and relevant suppliers in order to grow the cruise segment and its profitability.

IN THIS ROLE YOU WILL:

• Develop and execute an annual business plan for dnata/Arabian Adventures Cruise unit in accordance with the long-term objectives of the business. This involves setting clear strategies to achieve defined revenue targets while staying adaptable to evolving market trends. Emphasis is placed on proposing, implementing, and monitoring recommendations that align with market shifts.
• Conduct extensive market analysis to gather insights into various markets. This includes gathering intelligence on competitors’ strategies, service levels, pricing models, and product innovations. The goal is to ensure dnata Cruise maintains a competitive edge in the industry.Implement and monitor safety systems and procedures in coordination with Cruise lines and dnata Safety Department. This is crucial for minimizing risks to clients and staff while enhancing dnata/Arabian Adventures reputation within the industry.
• Take overall responsibility for the performance of the Cruise unit, including preparing annual budgets and managing operational expenses. Control all financial aspects through cost-effective operation methods, optimizing cost/revenue ratios, and ensuring efficient resource utilization.
• Lead the Cruise team by setting clear business objectives, managing performance, and fostering staff development and motivation. This involves cultivating a high-performance culture within the department and effectively managing both high performers and underperforming staff.
• Identify and drive synergies across the group, and collaborate closely with the Operations team to optimize client service and resource allocation.
• Lead all commercial negotiations with existing and new cruise clients, ensuring agreements are structured to maximize profitability.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and stakeholders to facilitate contracting, negotiate agreements and resolve any issues promptly.
• Interact, network, establish, and manage contacts at the highest level within the Cruise industry, local authorities, government officials and suppliers to enhance the company’s image and maintain dnata/Arabian Adventures’ edge over its competitors. Leverage networks to minimise or eliminate red tape and increase negotiation potential for the department. Government departments concerned
• Continuously identify and pursue new sources of business to capitalize on additional revenue opportunities. Actively participate in promoting Dubai, the UAE, and dnata regions as desirable destinations to potential clients and the media.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE: TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THE ROLE, YOU MUST MEET THE BELOW REQUIREMENTS:

• 8 or more years experience within the Cruise Industry, Travel or Leisure Industry
• 5 or more years in a management / leadership capacity.
• Degree or Honors (12+3 or equivalent)