Head of Talent Acquisition and Crewing

Headhunters; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 800 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm is seeking a Head of Talent Acquisition based in Cape Town. This senior management role requires over 10 years in HR with specific cruise industry experience. The candidate must demonstrate strong leadership abilities and familiarity with Maritime Labour laws. Key responsibilities include developing strategies and leading a team to meet recruitment goals.

Qualifications

• 10+ years’ experience in talent acquisition and recruitment.
• Proven experience in managing recruitment budgets.
• Strong background in recruitment marketing strategies.

Responsibilities

• Develop talent acquisition strategies tailored to the cruise industry.
• Lead a team to deliver recruitment goals.
• Source and attract diverse candidates.

Skills

Talent acquisition expertise

Leadership skills

Knowledge of Maritime Labour Convention (MLC)

Employer branding

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or related field

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Digital interviewing platforms

Job description

Overview

Our Client, a leading brand internationally operating in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry; is seeking to employ a Head of Talent Acquisition to their divisional team based in Cape Town.

Previous onboard experience on a luxury commercial cruise ship (mandatory).

This is a senior management appointment with a structured remuneration package to match.

Requirements

• 10+ years’ experience in talent acquisition, recruitment, and leadership roles within HR.
• Previous onboard experience on a luxury commercial cruise ship (mandatory).
• Experience within the cruise or hospitality industry (desirable).
• Strong knowledge of Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) and South African Labour Law.
• Working understanding of STCW and ILO regulations (advantageous).
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• Proven experience in managing recruitment budgets and optimising sourcing strategies.
• Demonstrated ability to use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), digital interviewing platforms, and modern recruitment technologies.
• Strong background in employer branding and recruitment marketing strategies.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive talent acquisition strategy tailored to the cruise industry.
• Lead and mentor a team of talent acquisition professionals to deliver recruitment goals.
• Source and attract a diverse pool of candidates using multiple sourcing channels.
• Conduct interviews and assessment centres, ensuring compliance with HR policies and industry standards.
• Manage the offer process, negotiate compensation, and oversee smooth onboarding.
• Build strong relationships with hiring managers, agencies, and stakeholders.
• Track, analyse, and report on recruitment metrics, identifying areas for improvement.
• Ensure compliance with global labour laws, HR policies, and diversity guidelines.
• Manage recruitment budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and strategic allocation of resources.
• Stay updated on cruise industry trends, crewing needs, and best practices in talent acquisition.
• Develop and implement employer branding initiatives to position the organisation as a top employer in the industry.

Please note that should you not receive a response within 2 weeks of applying, you may consider your application unsuccessful.