About the position
As a Cruise Director at Disney Cruise Line, you will lead the daily onboard operations and execution of entertainment products and services. This role involves overseeing all entertainment content, ensuring a consistent delivery of experiences, and enhancing guest and crew satisfaction. You will collaborate with various departments, manage financial operations, and develop a world‑class entertainment operations team while upholding Disney's values and safety standards.
Responsibilities
- Collaborate with internal and external partners to define a clear vision for onboard entertainment.
- Translate and integrate the vision into strategic operating plans focused on innovation and continuous process improvements.
- Drive enhanced guest and crew experiences considering the competitive environment.
- Direct all guest events and onboard entertainment.
- Ensure daily schedule of events onboard and ashore proceeds as scheduled, making necessary adjustments.
- Evaluate show quality and brand integrity, providing recommendations for future planning.
- Serve as the executive communicator for safety and guest information with ship-wide announcements.
- Oversee execution and daily delivery of guest service, focusing on guest satisfaction measurement.
- Develop a world‑class onboard entertainment operations team.
- Maintain an integrated focus on leadership development and succession planning.
- Lead effective and decision‑oriented department meetings.
- Liaise with all departments effectively and professionally.
- Support and champion safety initiatives across all entertainment lines of business.
- Oversee and manage financial profit and operating expenses, including revenue generation and cost containment.
- Communicate with Executive Director‑Entertainment Operations regarding consistency of operation between ships.
- Partner with shore‑side entertainment/port adventures operations leadership regarding onboard leadership development.
- Provide support for new itineraries by analyzing previous practices and executing strategies for successful delivery of entertainment offerings.
- Partner with Human Resources on managing personnel files and conducting performance reviews.
- Partner with Marketing/Promotions to plan special events.
- Perform extensive administrative duties.
Requirements
- Minimum eight or more years' experience in hosting, stage experience, and public speaking skills.
- Minimum of eight years' experience in a senior leadership role.
- Previous ship operations experience as a Cruise Director or similar role.
- Operational experience with an understanding of crew/entertainer challenges.
- Leadership experience including coaching and mentoring skills.
- Experience integrating the entertainment experience with multiple lines of business.
- Solid knowledge of entertainment operations business procedures.
- Passion for character and show integrity that supports the Disney Brand.
- Ability to initiate guest contact with enthusiasm and energy.
- Relate well to audiences of all ages and demographics.
- Highly motivated self‑starter able to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong administrative skills required.
- Demonstrated strong verbal, written presentation, and public speaking skills.
- Demonstrated strong negotiation, delegation, and partnering skills.
- Demonstrated problem‑solving and continuous improvement skills.
- Proven ability to organize, prioritize, and complete multiple tasks in a timely manner.
Nice‑to‑haves
- Preferred college degree or related training in recreation, education, entertainment, or related field.