Shipboard Human Resources Director (Implementation)

About Cruise Academy

Founded in 2017 by seafarers for seafarers, Cruise Academy specializes in maritime training and shipboard recruitment for the global cruise sector. We are MLC Certified and proudly audited and approved by the UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency.

Position Overview

This is a unique and dynamic stand-alone HRD position onboard a small, luxury cruise ship for an emerging cruise line. The Shipboard Human Resources Director will be responsible for managing all HR-related functions onboard, as well as delivering training. Working in partnership with Senior Officers and Department Heads, the HRD will play a key role in the implementation and ongoing management of Human Resources processes and procedures across all departments.

This role requires someone who is comfortable with ambiguity, resilient, and culturally sensitive, and who can evolve as the organization grows and changes. The ability to navigate multiple contract types, liaise with unions, and manage HR functions in an unstructured environment is essential. Previous experience working in a shipboard HR role is essential and proficiency in Japanese is preferred.

Required Skills and Experience

1. Previous experience in a shipboard HR Director role is essential.
2. Strong knowledge and experience working with unions and navigating collective bargaining agreements and diverse contract types.
3. Demonstrated experience in Employee Relations, conflict resolution, and investigations.
4. Comfortable working in a highly dynamic, evolving, and unstructured environment.
5. High cultural sensitivity and the ability to work effectively with diverse crews.
6. Exceptional leadership and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to influence and engage all levels of the shipboard organization.
7. Ability to deliver impactful training programs in leadership and compliance.
8. Fluency in Japanese is an advantage; previous experience working with Japanese seafarers or in Japan is highly desirable.
9. Resilient, adaptable, and able to manage ambiguity with a positive attitude.

Qualifications

1. Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, Psychology, or related field.
2. Global Human Resources Certification (GPHR preferred).
3. Minimum of 4-6 years as an HR Business Partner/HR Advisor or equivalent role.
4. At least 2 years of experience as a Shipboard Human Resources Manager.

Contract Details

4:2 rotation, paid 12 months of the year.
Single cabin accommodation with private bathroom facilities.
Must be available to start by mid-November 2024.