BASEL OFFICE - Destination Manager

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

• As a member of the Product Development Ocean Team, the Destination Manager Ocean creates a variety of shore experiences ranging from a few hours to several days, for all ports in a specific region of the world
• The Destination Manager defines each excursion by supporting the marketing positioning of the entire range of activities selected for each port and determines the right mix of inventory for the ship’s guests, with choice, quantity, quality and revenue in mind.
• They support the ships’ onboard teams and local vendors in the efficient execution of the shore programs and provides assistance in training of staff and problem resolution
  
  

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare comprehensive planning layouts, detailing shore excursions, P&L, competitive review and quality data for core destinations
• Lead price negotiations, initiate bidding processes and finalize contracts, set rates etc.
• Liaise with vendors and shipboard resources to implement shore excursion changes
• Provide operational support to on-board teams for all destination programs and during crisis situations
• Create and accurately administer inventory and track it across systems
• Review content of all pertinent collateral (e-mails, handouts, itinerary descriptions) that are part of a destination delivery (pre-, post-and during cruise) for accuracy
• Conceptualize enhancements to existing shore products and develop solutions for current quality challenges – own the entire destination management cycle, from concept to test to implementation to quality evaluation for core products
  
  

Key Qualifications

• At least 3 years of experience in all aspects of destination development and delivery, from concept creation to execution, including day-to-day operations and crisis management; feasibility, P&L and competitive analysis; inventory management
• Significant experience and proven track record of managing logistics, overseeing budgets
• Passion for providing an enriching travel experience
• Comprehensive general education and knowledge of geography, history, natural history, culture and current affairs of the core destination area
• Highly detail-oriented and organized work style
• Excellent communication skills in English (written and verbal), ability to perform under pressure, willingness and wherewithal to make decisions, a well-developed sense of quality in delivery; the ability to work in a fast-paced environment and function effectively within a diverse, international group of colleagues.
• You have excellent dexterity with MS Office Suite knowledge
  
  

EDUCATION

• You hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in fields of communication, logistics or tourism
  
  

Nice To Have Qualifications

• Travel/ hospitality industry experience is an important plus
  
  

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 us under 41 61 638 60 11

*Unsolicited submissions of candidates from agencies will not be considered*