Cruise Operations Specialist

Job Description: Come and join one of the world's leading luxury travel brands Abercrombie & Kent is the world's leading luxury travel business and has been a pioneer of experiential luxury travel since 1962. Founded as a luxury safari company in Africa, A&K today employs more than 3000 staff in over 70 offices in more than 83 countries. The company specialises in private, tailor-made and flexible small group travel to every corner of the globe and has a wholly owned portfolio of cruise boats, luxury lodges, tented camps, hotels, and all-terrain vehicles. As part of its global commitment, Abercrombie & Kent is committed to responsible and ethical tourism and through A&K Philanthropy supports projects in the communities where its guests travel dedicated to positively impacting lives and livelihoods. Abercrombie & Kent’s Cruise division, Akorn Destination Management, is a specialised division offering first class services in shore excursions, extended land programs and turnaround services to the cruise industry. Our teams are committed to service and dedicated to clients; provide local insight and practical knowledge that is enhanced by global expertise and presence. The role This role reports to the New Zealand Cruise Operations Manager and is responsible for managing cruise accounts and relationships, throughout all the ports and regions of New Zealand, ensuring meticulous pre-season planning and smooth delivery of cruise land programmes, turnaround logistics and cruise related events. Key responsibilities include but are not limited to: Provide high quality ground services for cruise ships visiting New Zealand working with the set processes and procedures for the cruise division. Manage Cruise Accounts & become the Akorn cruise face in handling all operational questions/issues related to Cruise Land programmes, Turnarounds and Cruise Events Ensure the successful and profitable management of cruise calls with timely reporting to the finance team as per the company guidelines and processes. Work with the local remote teams and travel as required to ports and regions around New Zealand to operate ship calls as required and ensure seamless delivery of the Cruise operational process Liaise with Cruise line Executives and onboard cruise contacts to ensure quality ground services in all ports and regions Resolve problems on the ground reporting any QC issues in real time Develop and maintain strong relations with all suppliers and clients Accurately book and manage all services required for the successful operation of Land Programs, Turns and tours within budget. Work closely with the Contracting Manager to ensure that all rates are contracted. Provide accurate confirmations, reconfirmation and tour documentation for all suppliers for ship calls including guides Accurately cost any additional product requests or changes Work closely with the Finance and Commercial team and New Zealand Cruise Operations Manager to ensure correct invoicing of files. Prepare Land programmes, Turnaround and Event proposals for cruise lines as requested by the Cruise Manager for A&K/Akorn clients The successful applicant will have: Minimum 4 years' work experience in the Cruise or Travel Industry. In depth knowledge of the New Zealand Inbound Cruise Industry Excellent product knowledge of New Zealand ports, regions and suppliers. Previous account management experience would be an advantage Good level of understanding of the logistics of large people movements preferably in a Cruise environment. Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Power Point & Outlook) Experience using an in-house travel or Reservations System (Travel Studio preferred) High attention to detail The ability to face challenges head on and a ‘can do and hands on’ attitude Commitment to the highest level of customer service Team player with an enthusiastic approach to the job Excellent time management skills and flexible working attitude Ability to work alone and unsupervised when travelling Mature outlook and ability to stay calm under pressure. Excellent communication skills both written and verbal Good initiative and ability to handle challenging situations quickly and effectively Why work for A&K? Our valued team of travel professionals across Australia and New Zealand each share a passion for making travel dreams a reality. These enthusiastic individuals come from diverse backgrounds and cultures. What you can expect with A&K Flexible and inclusive workplace where staff are encouraged to expand their skill set, take on challenges and contribute positively to our collective team. Supportive environment that will make you proud to work for A&K Investment in our staff with both in-house and external training opportunities Opportunity to progress your career, not just in New Zealand but as part of our global business Access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Work in the enviable CBD office location Opportunity to work from home as part of our hybrid working from home/office model Staff discounts and Travel Benefit program An organisation that is mindful of the environment, conscious of waste and seeks to minimise our eco-footprint. We're also a company that makes a difference. Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy (AKP) has proudly supported local communities around the world for the past 40 years. For more details and to view the full Job Description visit our website https://www.abercrombiekent.com.au/careers/current-vacancies If you meet the selection criteria and have appropriate work right, we would love to hear from you. To apply please send your resume and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role. EEO Statement Abercrombie & Kent is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.