Senior Lead, Entertainment Operations
On-siteBasel, Basel-City, Switzerland
Job Summary
Oversee the implementation and execution of entertainment programming across the river fleet, partnering with Product Development to refine strategy and adjust offerings for new destinations. Evaluate guest feedback and operational results to enhance programming, while proactively identifying trends and presenting recommendations to leadership. Manage entertainment budgets, including talent and vendor costs, and establish operating standards, SOPs, and performance metrics to drive operational improvement. Serve as the primary shoreside contact for contingency planning and service recovery, ensuring Cruise Directors and onboard teams remain aligned with established expectations. Coordinate live music operations and background music delivery, curating experiences that reflect local culture and regional authenticity.
Required Qualifications
- Proven experience in entertainment operations, programming, or talent management within ocean/river cruise, hospitality, or adjacent industries
- Demonstrated ability to build or scale programs, processes, or experiences in evolving environments
- Strong commercial and creative acumen, with a deep understanding of guest experience
- Established network or familiarity with talent sourcing, agencies, and entertainment trends—particularly within European markets
- Exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to influence across functions and levels
- Analytical mindset with the ability to translate insights into action
- Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent professional experience
- Working knowledge of German
- Proficiency in one or more of the following languages: French, Portuguese, Dutch, Hungarian, Romanian, Bulgarian, or Serbian
- 25-30% international travel
- Time onboard vessels
- Engagement with industry partners and talent markets
- Regular collaboration across global time zones
- Ability to sit, stand, write, review and type reports, compile data, operate a pc, communicate, listen, and assess information
- Ability to move about the office complex
- Ability to travel to other office locations
- Ability to lift, push, pull or move 10 - 15 pounds
- Distant, close and color vision
- Ability to adjust focus
Desired Qualifications
- Working knowledge of German is preferred
- Proficiency in one or more of the following languages: French, Portuguese, Dutch, Hungarian, Romanian, Bulgarian, or Serbian
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