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
• The Nautical Manager oversees the operations of Locks & Docks and is responsible for the entire Viking River Cruises fleet to ensure smooth 24/7 mooring availability for its ships. The manager ensures uninterrupted docking locations by proactively planning and managing logistics such as drinking water and waste disposal. He/she develops systems and processes to enhance operational efficiency within the Locks and Docks department and improve guest experiences.
• The Nautical Manager, Locks, and Docks work with two colleagues and report to the Director of Planning. They work closely with Corporate Captains and the Director of Nautical Operations. This role involves thinking ahead to pre-book docks in advance, continuously seeking optimal guest experiences, and making cost-conscious decisions. The Nautical Manager coordinates closely with the Land Operations department to deliver the best possible experience to guests while meeting financial objectives. The position is based in our European Head Office in Basel, Switzerland, and involves occasional international travel up to 10% of the time.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Planning and Operations
• Foundation of 24/7 Operations: Strategically manage the Locks & Docks operations, recognizing it as the cornerstone of Viking’s continuous ship operations
• Advance Dock Booking and Adaptation: Proactively plan and pre-book docking locations years in advance to ensure optimal availability and uninterrupted operations while also swiftly adapting reservations as needed by involving all stakeholders to accommodate immediate changes
• Experience Optimization: Continuously seek opportunities to enhance guest experiences through strategic docking locations and efficient operations
• Cost-Conscious Decision Making: Make informed decisions that balance operational efficiency with cost-effectiveness, always considering the financial impact on the company
Operational Management
• Cost Management and Contract Oversight: Demonstrated ability to manage contracts, verify invoices, and ensure accurate cost tracking. Keep all costs consolidated for regular review, knowing precisely what fees should be paid where, and ensuring timely and accurate payments
• Ensure Business Continuity: Develop and implement robust processes that enable the business to operate smoothly 24/7, even when not on duty
• Stakeholder Communication: Maintain effective communication and alignment with Captains, Officers, Corporate Captains, Ports, and other key stakeholders across the fleet
• Manage Operational Challenges: Proactively address bottlenecks or docking challenges by providing strategic and constructive solutions
• Support Deviations Management: Lead efforts in handling operational deviations by coordinating communication across various channels, departments, and stakeholders
• Waste Management: Implement and oversee cost-effective waste management solutions, continuously improving logistical processes related to environmental sustainability
• Systems Management: Effectively oversee operational systems to support daily operations, including port booking tools like MXP, Leanetec, and CruiseDock, as well as Excel, SharePoint, Teams, and PowerPoint, to optimize costs and operational efficiency
Process Development and Improvement
• Data Analysis and Reporting: Collect and analyze data on consumables usage, drinking water consumption, docking fees, and waste generation to identify trends and areas for improvement
• Process Optimization: Identify bottlenecks or insignificant or incomplete berthing facilities. Advise on strategic improvements to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of port usage, keeping the interests of our guests in mind
• Develop and Improve Systems and Procedures: Liaise with relevant departments and stakeholders, including Land Operations, to create and implement advanced predictive and preventive operational efficiency systems, enhancing standards, procedures, and service levels that support Locks & Docks operations
KEY QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
• Significant experience in nautical operations, particularly with Rhine, Main, and Danube river sailing routes, and France is a plus
• Proven ability to plan and manage long-term operations, including pre-booking and logistical planning years in advance
• Advanced skills in Microsoft 365 applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Power BI)
• Language skills: English (oral and written) on a business level. German is a plus
Soft Skills
• Proactive and precise, managing in-person and online communications and meetings
• Exceptional planning and organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail
• Cost Management Acumen: Strong understanding of cost management with the ability to make decisions that balance operational needs with financial prudence
• Positive and open-minded team player with a collaborative attitude
• Goal-oriented, self-motivated, and self-directed
• Reliable and capable of maintaining composure and effectiveness in high-pressure situations
Other skills & requirements
• Availability: Willingness to work extended and/or irregular hours, including weekends, to ensure the foundational operations run smoothly
• Travel Flexibility: Able to travel internationally up to 10% of the time
• Maintains a professional appearance and demeanor, embodying the company’s values and culture
COMMUNITY & CULTURE
• 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