Straight Talk. Real Experience. No Bull-ship. 🚢✨
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 Photo Manager is responsible for leading and motivating the onboard Photo Team to deliver outstanding customer service while achieving key revenue and performance targets. This role requires a strong leader with a passion for photography, sales, and team development, ensuring an exceptional guest experience while maximizing profitability. The Photo Manager oversees daily operations, collaborates with key stakeholders, and ensures compliance with company policies, making this a dynamic opportunity for an experienced professional in cruise photography operations.
Key Responsibilities
Revenue & Performance Management
* Ensure photo sales, including Platinum Studio, consistently meet or exceed planned revenue targets.
* Manage expenses effectively across the photo, retail, and video divisions to maintain profitability.
* Monitor revenue trends and implement strategies to optimize sales and operational performance.
* Complete detailed end-of-voyage reports, providing insights on revenue opportunities and performance issues.
Team Leadership & Development
* Lead, coach, and motivate the Photo Team to achieve sales goals and deliver exceptional guest experiences.
* Set clear, fair, and individualized performance goals, ensuring accountability and consistency.
* Conduct regular meetings with Assistant Photo Managers and staff to discuss career growth, development, and operational updates.
* Deliver timely and constructive performance appraisals, providing coaching and improvement plans as needed.
Operational Excellence & Customer Experience
* Ensure all marketing, visual directives, and operational procedures align with corporate standards.
* Maintain high photo quality standards, ensuring consistent brand representation.
* Address guest concerns and requests promptly, ensuring a seamless and positive customer experience.
* Collaborate with onboard revenue teams, including the Business and Brand Director and Associate Hotel General Manager, to identify growth opportunities and resolve operational challenges.
Inventory Management & Loss Prevention
* Oversee compliance with inventory management protocols, including pricing, barcoding, and loss-prevention measures.
* Ensure proper handling, maintenance, and security of photography equipment and merchandise.
Compliance & Safety
* Adhere to all company policies, Fleet Regulations, and emergency response protocols to maintain a safe and compliant work environment.
* Ensure team members comply with safety policies and operational procedures.
Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
Experience & Industry Knowledge
* 3–5 years of experience in the cruise industry, specifically in a Photo Manager or equivalent leadership role.
* In-depth understanding of cruise photography operations, including products, services, and revenue strategies.
* Strong financial acumen with the ability to manage budgets and control expenses.
Leadership & Team Development
* Proven ability to lead and develop international teams, driving performance and engagement.
* Experience in coaching, mentoring, and problem-solving within a customer service-driven environment.
* Strong interpersonal and communication skills, fostering a positive and productive team culture.
Operational & Sales Excellence
* Ability to implement operational best practices and drive continuous improvement in guest experience and sales.
* Customer-focused mindset with a passion for delivering high-quality service and photography products.
* Adaptability in a fast-paced environment, with strong troubleshooting and decision-making skills.
Technical & Compliance Skills
* High level of English fluency (written and verbal) with strong communication skills.
* Ability to adhere to company policies, safety protocols, and compliance requirements.
Contract
* 6:2 Rotations (6 months onboard the ship, followed by 2 months of vacation).
* Single cabin accommodation.