Technical Operations Director

Purpose of Position

The Technical Operations Director works closely with our Vessel Managers and New Building department. They ensure we are getting good value from our Vessel Management company and that learnings from operations are transferred to New Build so new vessels continue to improve.
This position is based in our Head Office in Basel, Switzerland. Please note that we can only accept applicants who are eligible to work in Switzerland or are in possession of a valid Swiss work permit.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manages the Operations part of the Request for Design Modification process, collects, reviews and makes return on investment calculations on all requests
• Represents Viking Ocean Cruises on all Energy saving related topics
• Project management of all in service Capex projects
• Responsible for the planning and financial control of all dry dock activities (execution of dry-dock by relevant Vessel Manager)
• Manage the maintenance interface with hotel, i.e. follow up standards on maintenance, processes, best practice. Act as liaison between hotel and deck/engine on hotel maintenance.
• Actively seeks out the best suppliers in the industry to ensure servicing/repairs carried out by Vessel Manager are always to the highest quality at the best price
• Represents Viking Ocean Cruises as required in negotiations with suppliers
• Reviews and assesses all non-opex requests
• Financial follow up of Vessel Manager, quarterly reviews and input into budgeting
• Works closely with Vessel Manager to optimize long term maintenance planning to ensure best cost and lowest impact on guest experience
• Forms a part of the itinerary review process
• Provides feedback from operations to New Build so that future platforms improve as required
• Conduct periodic vessel visits, audits & inspections to ensure the Vessel Manager is performing to Viking Ocean Cruises expectations
• Develops bunker plans and budgets and manages relationship with bunker brokers
• Develops and monitors fuel-testing program
• Other projects as assigned

QUALIFICATION PROFILE

• Strong understanding of cruise operations
• Minimum 5 years’ experience at sea or ashore in a cruise environment
• Experience in one of the following roles: Vessel Management, Chief Engineer, Staff Chief Engineer or Chief Electrician
• Fluent English, both verbal and in written
• Highly detail-oriented and organized in work
• Ability to meet assigned deadlines
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to act and operate independently with minimal daily direction from manager to accomplish objectives
• Strong project management skills
• Strong audit skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
• Ability to work cooperatively and collaboratively with all levels of employees, management, and external parties to maximize performance, creativity, problem solving, and results

WHAT WE OFFER

• Flexible working hours
• Onsite employee restaurant (including complimentary soft drinks, tea and coffee)
• Regular company events, e.g. company run, barbecue, cooking classes
• A modern working environment with height-adjustable desks
• A dynamic and fast-growing environment where you can drive your future
• A free cruise for you and your +1 every two years
• Discounts on cultural events and sports activities