Manager Port Operations

The Manager, Port Operations is responsible for managing and optimizing port logistics, services, and turnarounds across global port destinations for all Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings brands (Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises). This position ensures efficient vessel movements, operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and an elevated guest and crew experience. The role acts as the primary liaison between shipboard teams, port agents, terminal operators, and local authorities while driving cost‑effective solutions and supporting itinerary planning and deployment.

• Oversee end-to-end port operations including stevedoring, baggage handling, provisioning, and port vendors.
• Collaborate with shipboard teams and port agents to ensure efficient and timely vessel turnarounds or clearance.
• Serve as the company's primary liaison for port operations in regionally‑assigned ports.
• Work closely with Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and other authorities for compliance, inspection and guest/crew processing.
• Conduct a comprehensive review of operational workflows to identify cost‑saving measures and areas for efficiency enhancement, while also evaluating the requirement for critical marine and port services at each scheduled port or anchorage.
• Inform operational stakeholders of anomalies which carry the potential to impact the guest experience (Ie. weather marathons, protests, traffic, etc.).
• Provide operational updates to leadership, including resource allocation assessments, and performance metrics.
• Ensure alignment with the company's values, especially financial excellence, safety, and operational efficiency.
• Monitor and respond to operational disruptions (e.g., weather delays, strikes, health inspections) and support contingency planning.
• Foster and manage relationships with port authorities, local vendors, government agencies, customs/immigration and industry stakeholders with the intention of ensuring the best level of service is maintained for our operations.
• Support drydocks, inaugurals, and special projects requiring operational support.
• Adjust local equipment and service requests based on operational needs and budget adherence.
• Conduct operational audits, site visits, and vendor reviews to ensure service quality and regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with departments such as Safety, Nautical Operations, Hotel Operations, Environmental Operations, Shore Excursions, Security Operations, Logistics, Air, Public Health and Medical Operations to align turnaround procedures and guest experiences.
• Provide support in coordinating port labor and logistics assistance for provisions, stores, waste offloading and other ship requirements.
• Assist in identifying and communicating any local restrictions that may impact smooth embarkation or disembarkation.
• Represent the company in port industry groups, relevant forums, and in the presence of external entities. Lead cost‑reduction initiatives through vendor alignment, service optimization, and operational streamlining.
• Inform port services / destinations finance, where required, in case of operational circumstances when standard costs are exceeded (e.g., Special request for additional labor due to charters or other special projects).
• Perform other job‑related functions as assigned.

Bachelor's Degree

Maritime Studies, Business, Logistics, or related field

• Minimum 5 years of experience in maritime or cruise port operations, including vendor and cost management.
• In‑depth knowledge of port logistics, vessel turnaround processes, and maritime regulatory compliance (CBP, ISPS, IMO). Cruise industry experience with multiple brands or vessels preferred.

• Familiarity with port infrastructure and services in North America, Europe, Caribbean, and Asia.
• Experience in contract management, budgeting, and vendor oversight.
• Strong focus on safety, guest service, and operational excellence. Strong leadership, interpersonal, and vendor management skills.
• Experience working with global and multicultural teams.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational abilities.
• Proficiency in port operations systems and reporting tools.
• Ability and willingness to travel frequently to domestic and international ports.