Manager, Projects

Disney Cruise Line; Celebration (FL); On-site; USD 121,000 - 162,000; Full time

Job summary

Disney Cruise Line is seeking a Manager, Projects to lead capital project delivery across Island & Destination Planning in Celebration, FL. You will drive end-to-end execution from concept through close-out while aligning with strategic priorities and balancing scope, schedule, budget, safety, and guest experience.

You will partner with Operations, Engineering, Creative, and external partners to ensure cost-effective solutions with minimal disruption, while building a high-performing team

Qualifications

• 10+ years of project management experience, including full lifecycle delivery.
• 5+ years of leadership experience with direct team oversight.
• Demonstrated success managing complex capital projects and/or portfolios.
• Strong experience in contract administration, cost management, and claims resolution.

Responsibilities

• Lead full lifecycle project delivery (initiation through close-out) across a portfolio of large-scale or multiple concurrent projects.
• Own performance across scope, schedule, budget, safety, quality, and risk mitigation.
• Develop and execute delivery strategies aligned with business priorities, operational constraints, and guest experience standards.
• Anticipate risks and proactively implement mitigation strategies based on historical insights and forward-looking analysis.
• Partner with Strategic Sourcing to develop bid strategies, scopes of work, and contract structures that optimize cost and delivery outcomes.
• Oversee contract administration, change management, and claims resolution.
• Ensure accurate forecasting, Estimate at Completion (EFC), and financial reporting.
• Integrate project delivery with ongoing island and destination operations to minimize disruption and maximize efficiency.
• Lead coordination across internal partners, contractors, municipalities, and site stakeholders.
• Manage field execution, including directives, change orders, and project closeout processes.
• Serve as the primary point of accountability for project communication to partners and executive leadership.
• Deliver clear, concise updates on project status, risks, financials, and operational impacts.
• Build strong cross-functional relationships to enable alignment and decision-making.
• Develop and implement project controls, standards, and governance processes.
• Leverage systems (SAP, project management tools) to drive visibility, discipline, and portfolio planning (e.g., Integrated Facility Plan).
• Identify and implement process improvements and best practices across the portfolio.
• Lead, mentor, and develop project team members to deliver high-impact outcomes.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Executive communication

Strategic thinking

Risk management

Contract management

SAP

Project management tools

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Architecture/Construction Management or related field

MBA or advanced degree

Tools

SAP

Project management tools

Job description

Every day at Disney Cruise Line we take pride in bringing the magic of Disney to life. We find joy in creating cherished memories and form genuine connections with our guests. We hold each other to the highest degree and always act responsibly while ensuring the safety of fellow cast, crew and guests. United by our Disney values, we work toward excellence in all we do. As a part of our team, you can work in a diverse and inclusive environment amidst a professional and supportive community. If you are ready to create unforgettable experiences and grow as a person and as a professional, apply today.

The Manager, Projects leads the successful delivery of capital projects across Island & Destination Planning, driving end-to-end execution from concept through close-out. This role ensures alignment with strategic priorities while balancing scope, schedule, budget, safety, and operational continuity.

Accountable for a portfolio of complex projects, the role integrates cross-functional stakeholders—including Operations, Engineering, Creative, and external partners to deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions with minimal operational disruption.

Responsibilities

Project & Portfolio Delivery

• Lead full lifecycle project delivery (initiation through close-out) across a portfolio of large-scale or multiple concurrent projects


• Own performance across scope, schedule, budget, safety, quality, and risk mitigation


• Develop and execute delivery strategies aligned with business priorities, operational constraints, and guest experience standards


• Anticipate risks and proactively implement mitigation strategies based on historical insights and forward-looking analysis

Planning, Contracting & Commercial Management

• Partner with Strategic Sourcing to develop bid strategies, scopes of work, and contract structures that optimize cost and delivery outcomes


• Oversee contract administration, change management, and claims resolution


• Ensure accurate forecasting, Estimate at Completion (EFC), and financial reporting

Execution & Operational Integration

• Integrate project delivery with ongoing island and destination operations to minimize disruption and maximize efficiency


• Lead coordination across internal partners, contractors, municipalities, and site stakeholders


• Manage field execution, including directives, change orders, and project closeout processes

Stakeholder Engagement & Communication

• Serve as the primary point of accountability for project communication to partners and executive leadership


• Deliver clear, concise updates on project status, risks, financials, and operational impacts


• Build strong cross-functional relationships to enable alignment and decision-making

Program Controls & Continuous Improvement

• Develop and implement project controls, standards, and governance processes


• Leverage systems (SAP, project management tools) to drive visibility, discipline, and portfolio planning (e.g., Integrated Facility Plan)


• Identify and implement process improvements and best practices across the portfolio

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop project team members to deliver high-impact outcomes


• Build organizational capability through training, standards, and knowledge sharing


• Foster an inclusive, high-performing team culture focused on accountability and results

Core Leadership Capabilities

• Strategic & Critical Thinking – Translates strategy into executable plans


• Decision Quality & Ownership – Makes timely, data-informed decisions with accountability


• Executive Communication – Delivers concise, compelling messaging to leadership


• Collaboration & Influence – Drives alignment across diverse stakeholders


• Adaptability & Resilience – Performs effectively in dynamic, high-pressure environments


• Talent Development – Builds and develops high-performing, diverse teams

Required Qualifications

• 10+ years of project management experience, including full lifecycle delivery


• 5+ years of leadership experience with direct team oversight


• Demonstrated success managing complex capital projects and/or portfolios


• Strong experience in contract administration, cost management, and claims resolution


• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams in operational environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in themed entertainment, hospitality, or destination-based operations


• Advanced understanding of estimating, cost drivers, and risk-based decision-making


• Experience working in active operational environments with minimal disruption requirements

Required Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, related field or equivalent combination of education and experience

Desired Education

• Advanced degree (MBA or technical master’s)

The hiring range for this position in Celebration, FL is $120,800 to $161,900 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

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