Lead, Port Operation

Journey with us! Combine your career goals and sense of adventure by joining our exciting team of employees. Royal Caribbean Group is pleased to offer a competitive compensation & benefits package, and excellent career development opportunities, each offering unique ways to explore the world.

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Silversea is the defining name in luxurious cruise travel by distinguishing itself in the ultra-luxury market with its elegant, all-suite ships, all-inclusive pricing, worldwide itineraries and genuine hospitality. All our ships feature spacious, ocean-view suites with butler service, and most include private verandas, meaning you can sip your champagne from the comfort of your deck while watching the vistas beyond. Whether you want to gaze at icebergs or palm trees, the choice is yours. Our ships sail pole-to-pole to over 900 destinations on all seven continents, leaving (almost) no part of coastline uncovered.  We are proud of our reputation as the "World's Best" cruise line and seek individuals who take personal pride in their work to join our award-winning team.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Lead, Port Operations plays a pivotal role in supporting the Port Operations Manager across a variety of daily activities. Key responsibilities include forecast preparation, variance analysis and rate examination. The Lead, Port Operation analyzes historical data, trends and relevant information to create accurate and reliable forecasts, ensuring that they reflect the real-time dynamics of Port Operations costs. By examining discrepancies between actual costs and forecasted figures, the Supervisor helps identify areas for improvement and cost management, while assessing port rates and tariffs to recognize potential cost-saving opportunities.

The Lead, Port Operations works closely with various internal teams within RCG to maintain alignment and consistency in data and processes. This role also involves collaboration with Port Agencies and Third-Party Vendors to evaluate tariffs, which is essential for making informed, strategic decisions. A core focus of the Supervisor position is to provide the analytical foundation necessary for strategic decision-making. Through meticulous analysis of published port tariffs and vendor rates, the Lead develops the business rules essential for precise forecasting. This thorough approach is critical for identifying cost-saving opportunities and enhancing operational efficiency and financial performance.

The role requires a robust skill set, including analytical skills to examine complex data sets and derive actionable insights. Familiarity with analytical tools and software is crucial for effective data analysis, while a keen eye for detail ensures the accuracy and reliability of forecasts and analyses. Strong verbal and written communication skills are vital for collaboration with internal teams and external vendors, and the ability to identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements is key to this role. In summary, the Lead, Port Operations is integral to enhancing operational efficiency and supporting strategic decision-making within the organization.

• Oversee the entire Port Operations financial process for the Silversea fleet, emphasizing financial accountability
• Collaborate with the Budget and Control Team to conduct periodic cost analyses
• Assist the Accounting and Budget & Control Teams during the monthly closing process
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and support the RCG (Royal Caribbean Group) Compliance Team
• Foster cooperation and develop processes with onboard teams, particularly Financial Officers
• Aid in finalizing Silversea contracts and determining service rates with Port Agents and Third-Party Vendors
• Perform detailed analyses of port tariffs and applicable rates to prepare Port Operations forecasts
• Provide analytical support for bidding procedures and evaluate potential opportunities
• Help identify opportunities for incentives and rebate applications
• Assess the financial impacts of potential itinerary changes
• Assist in creating and maintaining database systems for tracking and analyzing operational data
• Offer guidance on estimate and final invoice submission procedures for Port Agents, Third-Party Vendors, Financial Officers, the Accounting Team, and the Billing Team
• Support billing management and review processes to ensure compliance with FCPA guidelines
• Assist Vessel Financial Officers in daily operations
• Coordinate the daily activities of the Accounting and Billing Teams
• Reconcile account statements, analyze open balances, and verify accruals
• Contribute to feasibility studies to support management decisions
• Provide assistance to management and other teams with various assigned tasks

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION

The Lead, Port Operations at Silversea Company is responsible for overseeing financial and operational aspects of Port Operations, including financial forecasting, cost management and coordination with various Departments.

Professional Experience:

• Several years of experience in similar roles within the maritime or cruise industry
• Direct experience in managing Operations
• Experience in preparing and managing financial forecasts, variance analysis and cost management

Educational Background:

• Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Business Administration, Logistics, Maritime Engineering or related fields

FINANCIAL/QUANTITIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

The role requires intermediate communication, analytical and organizational skills to effectively support the Team and assist in managing Port Operations activities in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

Verbal and written communication skills, including business writing, are required.

Working knowledge in computer systems, including Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

Knowledge of other systems such as MXP (Port Operations Tool) and Dynamics Navision (Finance/Accounting) is appreciated.

Financial Skills:

• Understanding of financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting
• Experience in preparing financial forecasts
• Ability to assist in cost analysis and identify financial variances

Operational Skills:

• Ability to support and monitor daily Ship operations
• Experience in managing prepayments and assisting with final invoices settlement

Coordination and Communication Skills:

• Communication and negotiation skills for interfacing with onboard Teams, Port Agencies, and various company departments
• Ability to work cross-functionally with departments such as Guest Port Services, Marine, Shorex, Expedition, Legal, Accounting, FCPA Compliance, Crew, and Logistics
• Organizational and planning skills to assist in managing complex operations in a dynamic and fast-paced environment

Analytical Skills:

• Analytical capabilities for conducting detailed service operation analyses
• Ability to monitor and ensure alignment of Port Operations with company goals

Requested:

• Microsoft Office – Intermediate level

Appreciated:

• Microsoft Dynamics NAV (Accounting)
• MXP (Port Operations)
• Power BI