Human Resources Manager

Cruise Academy; Dubai; On-site; AED 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Cruise Academy is seeking a Shipboard Human Resources Manager to lead HR functions on board. The ideal candidate will have extensive HR management experience, strong leadership skills, and the ability to navigate a multicultural environment. Responsibilities include employee relations, compliance, and crew welfare. This role offers a unique opportunity to work in the dynamic cruise industry, ensuring the well-being and development of crew members while aligning HR strategies with company values.

Benefits

Single cabin accommodation

Qualifications

• 5+ years of HR management experience in employee relations or shipboard operations.
• Proven ability to handle employee relations in a multicultural environment.

Responsibilities

• Act as a strategic partner to ship and shore leadership teams.
• Oversee performance management and employee relations.
• Manage onboarding and shipboard orientation for new hires.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-Solving

Communication

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources

Advanced SHRM or CIPD certification

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft PowerPoint

Job description

At Cruise Academy, we don’t just teach it -we’ve lived it. Founded in 2017 by seafarers for seafarers, we specialize in maritime training and shipboard recruitment for the global cruise industry.

We tell it like it is -the good, the bad, and the downright exhausting. No sugarcoating, no sales pitch -just real, honest insights from those who’ve been there. Because you deserve to know exactly what to expect before stepping onboard.

We are MLC Certified and proudly audited and approved by the UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency , ensuring the highest standards in training, recruitment,and compliance.

If you're serious about a career at sea, we’ll get you there -the right way.

Position Summary

The Shipboard Human Resources Manager (HRM) serves as a strategic HR leader, business partner, and member of the onboard Executive Committee. This role collaborates closely with ship and shore leadership to implement HR strategies that align with company values and operational goals. The HRM oversees key HR functions, including employee relations, performance management, organizational development, compliance, learning & development, and crew welfare. The ideal candidate is a seasoned HR professional with strong leadership, coaching, and problem-solving skills who thrives in a dynamic, multicultural environment.

Key Responsibilities

HR Leadership & Business Partnership

• Act as a strategic partner to ship and shore leadership teams, developing and implementing HR programs aligned with company values.
• Provide expert guidance and coaching to onboard leaders on HR policies, performance management, and employee relations.
• Lead a highly engaged, team-oriented HR department , ensuring best practices and a strong service culture.

Employee Relations & Compliance

• Serve as the Subject Matter Expert on MLC 2006 , ensuring compliance through regular inspections and reporting to senior management.
• Manage harassment and discrimination cases , conducting thorough and confidential investigations.
• Oversee performance management , ensuring fair and consistent disciplinary procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality and integrity while handling employee relations concerns and investigations.

Learning & Development

• Oversee teammate onboarding and shipboard orientation to ensure a smooth transition for new hires.
• Develop and support learning initiatives that enhance professional growth and onboard leadership development.
• Manage the Crew Welfare & Crew Club function, ensuring a balanced offering of social, recreational, and educational programs for crew engagement and well-being.
• Act as the designated shipboard CARE Officer , partnering with the Medical Department to support teammate well-being.
• Oversee the Internal Transfer Program , providing career counseling and managing the internal recruitment and interview process.
• Collaborate with shore management to drive employee engagement initiatives , using survey results to improve workplace culture.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Adult Education, or a related field (or international equivalent) preferred.
• Advanced SHRM or CIPD certification is a plus.

Experience & Expertise

• 5+ years of HR management experience , preferably in employee relations, HR business partnering, or shipboard operations .
• Proven ability to handle employee relations in a multicultural environment , including conducting investigations and conflict resolution.
• Strong understanding of international HR standards , including compensation, benefits, staffing, and organizational development.

Technical & Compliance Knowledge

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint .
• Strong knowledge of MLC 2006 regulations and compliance requirements .

Leadership & Communication

• Strong public speaking and leadership skills , with a professional and approachable demeanor.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills in English .
• Ability to build trust, influence, and maintain confidentiality at all levels of the organization.

Adaptability & Problem-Solving

• Ability to multi-task, manage stress, and navigate complex employee relations scenarios with professionalism.
• Demonstrated commitment to ethics, integrity, and fostering a respectful workplace culture .

Contract

• 4 : 2 Rotation (Rolling contracts of 4 months onboard the ship, followed by 2 months of vacation).
• Single cabin accommodation.