Entertainment Specialist

Entertainment Specialist – Guilford, CT

American Cruise Lines is the largest domestic cruise line with over 20 ships operating solely within the U.S. and is the only 100% American-owned and operated cruise line. Our goal is to share America’s Story on the finest American ships and deliver the best cruise experience across the country.

We are searching for a Specialist, Entertainment to join the Guest Programs Team. The position works directly with the Coordinator, Entertainment and Enrichment, and Manager, Guest Programs and is responsible for the sourcing, vetting and scheduling of professional entertainers who perform nightly across our growing fleet of small cruise ships. Additionally, the Specialist, Entertainment will work with the Guest Programs team to design, develop and execute engaging activities and events for our guests.

The role is based out of our home office located in Guilford, CT.

Candidates must have significant experience and expertise in cruise and/or resort entertainment selection, supervision and operations, as well as innovative activity creation, training and scheduling. The Specialist, Entertainment will collaborate with the Guest Programs team and other departments to create relevant and memorable onboard experiences for our guests.

The Specialist, Entertainment must be extraordinarily creative, organized, accurate, detail-oriented, communicative, and must enjoy working with a team and thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values —
Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit
. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America’s Story on the Finest American Ships.

• Source, select and manage the scheduling of all entertainers for the fleet.
• Continuously evaluate and coach all entertainment personnel, ensuring that minimum performance and ratings requirements are always exceeded.
• Communicate guest feedback directly with entertainers, ensuring performers receive constructive input and opportunities to improve.
• Manage frequent last-minute operational changes including, but not limited to, itinerary adjustments, cancellations, and underperforming entertainers to secure short-notice replacements as needed.
• Coordinate entertainer logistics, including travel, embarkation/disembarkation planning, and overnight onboard stays when required.
• Monitor entertainment-related guest feedback daily to identify trends and make timely decisions regarding repeat bookings, coaching, or dismissal, all with the goal of increasing guest satisfaction.
• Oversee invoice control for all entertainment personnel and expenses.
• Ensure positive entertainer and entertainment supplier relations through open, accurate communication, collaboration, and relationship building.
• Maintain thorough awareness and competitive analysis of company competitors and their product offerings.
• Collaborate with the Guest Programs team to create unique, memorable and branded guest experiences and event.
• Research and recommend new activities, events and other product enhancements.
• The Entertainment Specialist must be available to respond to time-sensitive operational needs, including occasional evenings and weekends, particularly during active cruise seasons.
• Perform significant administrative duties as required.

• Bachelors’ Degree or equivalent cruise/resort industry experience required; entertainment and event planning experience preferred.
• Exceptional skill set to accurately and objectively assess entertainers and musicians for an evolving cruise guest demographic required.
• Strong general knowledge of entertainment technical systems and operations.
• Strong organizational skills and a high level of verbal, written and listening skills.
• Ability to multi-task with extreme precision.
• Ability to manage frequent last-minute changes calmly and effectively.
  
  Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-stress environment.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft 365; will be trained on other systems and applications.
• Must be positive, enthusiastic and outgoing; a consummate team player.
• After hours ship support required.

At American Cruise Lines, our people are the driving force behind our success. As the nation’s leader in U.S. river cruising, we’re experiencing rapid growth — and we're investing in top talent to grow with us. When you join our team, you’ll find a dynamic work environment that values innovation, collaboration, and excellence, with real opportunities to build your career and make an impact.