MANAGER, GUEST PROGRAMMING
Luxury Vessel • Miami, FL • USD $110,000 - $115,000 + Annual Bonus
ABOUT THE ROLE
We are searching for a creative, resourceful, and experienced Manager, Guest Programming for a luxury vessel operation based in Miami, FL. This is a new role responsible for the overall success of the onboard recreation and activities program, delivering bespoke, destination-relevant entertainment experiences that surprise and delight a discerning, high-end clientele. The ideal candidate is an entertainment leader with deep luxury hospitality experience and the commercial acumen to plan, budget, and execute at the highest level.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
- Design and lead an onboard guest programming strategy that delivers unique, personalized, and destination driven entertainment experiences
- Lead, build, and develop the onboard Entertainment and Recreation team, setting performance standards and driving engagement
- Supervise the sourcing and contracting of guest entertainers, wellness speakers, performers, and local entertainment
- Oversee themed events, creative productions, and all entertainment programming across the vessel
- Manage onboard entertainment technical systems including background music, interactive TV, and content delivery
- Build and maintain strong relationships with third-party entertainment partners, port agents, and logistics providers
- Collaborate with charter, group, and commercial sales teams to develop focused programming for themed sailings
- Monitor guest feedback and continuously refine the programming to enhance satisfaction and resolve issues promptly
- Manage procurement of entertainment-related supplies and maintain relevant budgets and forecasts
- Ensure all programming is age-appropriate, health-appropriate, and aligned with maritime safety and SOLAS regulations
- Be prepared to work onboard the vessel when required, including acting in a broader entertainment leadership capacity
WHAT YOU BRING
- Current or recent experience working onboard ships or yachts is required
- Background within luxury bespoke cruise lines or yacht operations is strongly preferred
- Minimum 5 years of experience in luxury hospitality leadership roles, with a strong track record in entertainment, recreation, or guest programming
- Significant experience in the luxury cruise or yacht industry is highly preferred
- A proven ability to create and deliver exceptional, individualised guest experiences for a high-end clientele
- Strong commercial acumen including budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning
- Outstanding communication and stakeholder management skills, with the confidence to engage at all levels
- A natural team builder with experience recruiting, developing, and leading diverse hospitality teams
- Multi-cultural awareness and the interpersonal skills to work effectively in a global environment
- Meticulous attention to detail and an understanding of luxury standards
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Willingness to live and work onboard for extended periods and travel to various international destinations
- Degree in Hospitality Management, Arts, or a related field preferred; advanced certifications are a plus
WHAT'S OFFERED
- USD $110,000 - $115,000 per year plus annual bonus
- A pioneering role within a unique and growing luxury vessel operation
- The opportunity to shape a world-class guest programming experience from the ground up
- International travel to diverse destinations