AD Ports Group logo

Manager – International Cruise & Marina Leisure Development

AD Ports Group
1 day ago
Full-time
On-site
Abu Dhabi, 01

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

AD Ports Group is seeking a senior Manager – International Cruise & Marina Leisure Development to drive the growth of its global cruise network from Abu Dhabi. The role centers on analyzing market trends, developing international growth strategies, and building durable partnerships with cruise operators, port authorities, government bodies and tourism entities while guiding commercial negotiations, MoUs and concession frameworks. You will manage the international business development pipeline, financial planning and investment decisions and report to executive management and boards. Ideal candidates have 8 to 10 years in cruise, ports or hospitality with strong leadership, deal making and financial analysis, English with Arabic preferred. To apply, emphasize concrete market entry wins, cross functional leadership and quantified outcomes; tailor your CV to show stakeholder engagement, regulatory fluency and project management success, and include concise case studies of revenue growth in international markets.

Developing and refining cruise products in coordination with supply chain and destination partners, and collaborating with internal teams and external stakeholders, including government entities, port authorities, and tourism bodies in the international market.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Identify and analyze market trends, competitor activities, and new business opportunities to develop effective strategies for international cruise market growth aligned with Cruise Co.’s vision and strategic objectives.

  • Develop and implement international growth strategies and initiatives, targeting new destinations, cruise lines, and business opportunities within the global cruise tourism sector.

  • Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key stakeholders, including cruise operators, tourism boards, government officials, and port authorities in target international markets.

  • Lead business development initiatives to proactively identify, pursue, and convert new opportunities into commercial agreements and partnerships that enhance AD Ports’ global cruise network.

  • Manage the international business development pipeline, ensuring timely progress, prioritization, and alignment with corporate strategy.

  • Conduct detailed market research and financial analysis to evaluate new opportunities, assess risks, and support investment and partnership decisions. Drive financial planning, capital budgeting, and revenue optimization across all Cruise Business Project

  • Oversee and support the negotiation of commercial contracts, MoUs, and concession frameworks, ensuring alignment with financial and operational targets.

  • Champion and deliver new revenue growth initiatives, increasing the contribution of international cruise operations to AD Ports’ profitability.

  • Manage stakeholder engagement across government, regulatory, community, and private sectors to facilitate smooth cooperation and partnership delivery.

  • Prepare internal and external updates, including presentations, reports, and briefing materials for executive management, investment committees, and boards.

  • Monitor and report on the performance of international cruise projects, providing insights and recommendations to enhance commercial outcomes and strategic positioning.

People Management Responsibilities:

 

  • Lead, inspire, and motivate the business development teams and streams, setting clear expectations, objectives, and targets.

  • Provide coaching and professional development opportunities to enhance team capability and performance.

Strategic Responsibilities:

  • Support the development and execution of Cruise Business international cruise strategy, contributing insights, analysis, and recommendations for market entry and growth.

  • Lead transformation and optimization initiatives that enhance operational efficiency, customer experience, and commercial performance within international cruise operations.

  • Represent the international cruise function in strategic internal committees and working groups, contributing to policy development, investment planning, and innovation initiatives.

  • Maintain a deep understanding of global cruise market dynamics, emerging destinations, and industry trends to guide decision-making and strategic planning.

  • Engage with industry thought leaders and stakeholders to identify opportunities for partnerships, innovation, and expansion in the cruise tourism sector.

Educational and Technical Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in in Business Administration, International Business, Maritime Management, Economics, or related field.
    Master’s degree or MBA is an advantage.

  • Experience in financial modeling, feasibility studies, and commercial analysis.

  • A Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or similar is a plus.

Language Skills:

  • English and preferably other languages such as Arabic. 

  • Strategic thinking and commercial acumen

  • Strong financial analysis and contract negotiation skills

  • High-level communication and stakeholder management

  • Team leadership and organizational development

  • Project and change management

Years of Experience:

  • Minimum of 8-10 years of relevant experience in th Cruise Business, Ports, Hospitality, maritime 

  • Demonstrated track record of successfully overseeing international Experience

Nature of Experience:

  • Significant experience within the cruise industry or travel/leisure industry is essential.

  • Proven leadership in cruise operations, commercial asset management, and public-private stakeholder collaboration.

  • Strong business sense, analytical skills, and the ability to translate market data into actionable strategies.

  • Deep understanding of international cruise laws, regulations, and investment processes.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication, negotiation, and presentation skills are crucial for engaging with international partners.

  • In-depth, first-hand knowledge of the cruise market and a strong understanding of customer needs and expectations

  • Demonstrated experience in project management, with a strong track record of managing complex, cross-functional projects in an international context.

  • Knowledge in focus on international strategy, business development, and market expansion.