Head of Entertainment, Cruise Director

Princess Cruises; New York (NY); Remote; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Private cabin accommodation

Company-paid travel to/from the ship

Exclusive onboard benefits

Dynamic work environment

Access to learning opportunities

Job summary

A leading cruise line is seeking a Head of Entertainment, Cruise Director to lead a diverse team in delivering exceptional guest experiences. Responsibilities include overseeing events, managing budgets, and providing leadership. Candidates should have substantial event organization experience, strong leadership skills, and a vibrant personality. This role offers competitive salary and private cabin accommodations.

Qualifications

• Substantial experience in organizing events and performances.
• Robust leadership capaсity for managing diverse teams.
• Experience with budget management and inventory control.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop the Entertainment and Activity Staff team.
• Act as the onboard Brand Ambassador for guest-facing events.
• Oversee guest entertainment experience and ensure alignment with brand standards.
• Manage department costs and communicate updates with the Entertainment team.

Skills

Event organization

Leadership

Public speaking

Budget management

Team management

Education

Relevant professional experience

Job description

Head of Entertainment, Cruise Director

Department: Activity Team

Employment Type: Fixed Term Contract

Location: Global

Description

By applying to this position, your application will be submitted to Princess Cruises' internal Talent Acquisition team and will be reviewed by a professional recruiter who will contact you soon if your qualifications meet our requirements for this position.

As the world's leading cruise line, our guests have high expectations of us, and we have high expectations of our team members. We appreciate your patience as we carefully review each candidate.

Set a course for adventure with Princess Cruises! The employer of choice in the cruise industry, our fleet of Love Boats offer exceptional facilities and extensive professional development and recreational programs for our valued teammates who hail from more than 60 countries around the globe.

An iconic brand beloved by millions, we love people who love what they do and work together to help our guests create a lifetime of wonderful memories while providing friendly, attentive and authentic service like only Princess can.

As a member of the Princess Family, you’ll enjoy a truly adventurous career with excellent incentives, unlimited opportunities for growth, and ports of call that will leave you breathless.

Key Responsibilities

• The Cruise Director is responsible for leading, mentoring, and developing a diverse Entertainment and Activity Staff team to consistently deliver a guest experience that aligns with brand standards. They act as the onboard Brand Ambassador, hosting significant guest‑facing events and activities, presenting a dynamic and engaging entertainment program. This role monitors operations and inspires a guest‑ and teammate‑centric culture that enhances Net Promoter scores, profitability, and Service Excellence while ensuring a safe and healthy environment in accordance with HESS protocols.
• The Cruise Director leads and develops a department of highly skilled individuals that deliver consistently on all Entertainment products, including Youth and Teens, Guest Activities, Onboard Media, Enrichment Programs, Production Services, Music Services, Guest Entertainers, and supports all onboard guest programming. They champion all elements of the MedallionClass experience through accountability, training, and delivery.
• The Cruise Director ensures a personalized, guest‑centric culture and reduces friction points by exceeding entertainment targets. They collaborate with Entertainment Managers to create customized experiences and share best practices for increased personalization. They oversee the Guest Entertainment Experience, aligning development and execution with shipboard leaders, monitor quality assurance standards, and collaborate with entertainment management to enhance the entertainment experience.
• The Cruise Director also manages department costs and inventory in line with established budgets, conducts regular meetings with the Technical department to oversee entertainment repairs and maintenance, reviews strategies for cost efficiencies, and communicates company updates and strategies to the Entertainment team using appropriate technology.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• Those who are successful in their candidacy must demonstrate a substantial background in the organisation of events, activities, shows and theatrical performances. This does not entail a role within the ensemble; rather, it is a position that is outward‑facing, with the individual acting as the focal point of the production. The candidate must possess a stage style that is confident yet charming, charismatic and energetic. The delivery must be controlled, natural and easy to watch, yet engaging, humorous and endearing.
• Additionally, successful candidates must possess robust leadership abilities and demonstrate the capacity to oversee large, diverse, and multicultural teams. They must also exhibit proficiency in budgetary management and inventory control.
• A comprehensive curriculum vitae is essential. It is important to provide a concise and easily readable overview of one's professional experience. However, if we may offer a suggestion, it is often preferable to present a minimalist approach.
• Additionally, a brief video presentation showcasing the candidate's personality, communication abilities, and public speaking skills is required. While it is not necessary to have a professional video, it is essential that it accurately represents the candidate's genuine appearance. Please refer to the attached Video Submission Instructions.

Job Benefits

Embark on a career adventure like no other! As part of the Princess Cruises team, you’ll enjoy:

• A competitive salary package.
• Your own comfortable single cabin - your private space to relax and recharge.
• Company‑paid travel to and from the ship, so you can focus on the journey ahead.
• Access to exclusive areas and benefits onboard (depending on the rank and occupational group).
• A vibrant recreation and welfare program designed to support your well‑being and work‑life balance.
• Access to exceptional learning and development opportunities to grow your skills and advance your career.
• The chance to travel the world, exploring exciting destinations while doing what you love.
• A welcoming, inclusive, and dynamic work environment where your contributions are valued.

Join us and become part of a global team that’s passionate about delivering unforgettable experiences—both for our guests and for one another.