Xanterra Travel Collection · 17 hours ago
Director of Port Operations
Xanterra Travel Collection is seeking a talented Director of Port Operations to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for all port-related activities across its fleet. The role involves managing port logistics, financial management, vendor relations, and ensuring operational excellence while leading the implementation of the MXP system.
Hospitality
Responsibilities
Serve as the central point of contact and subject‑matter expert for all fleetwide port operations
Provide strategic direction for itinerary planning, deployment documentation, port setup, and operational readiness
Collaborate closely with Product Development, Finance, Nautical, and Marine Operations leadership to support commercial and operational decision‑making
Manage itinerary and deployment documents, ensuring accurate and timely publication
Coordinate port budgets, cost analysis, and itinerary‑driven financial modeling
Oversee port reservations, phantom/double booking processes, and historical port data management
Maintain and govern key port data sources, including the Port Agent database and Pier Address documentation
Ensure full adherence to CLIA standards, industry best practices, and internal company policies
Lead annual port budgeting, leveraging historical trends, proformas, and strategic cost forecasting
Continuously monitor financial performance, identifying variances, opportunities for savings, and operational risks
Oversee accurate coding, processing, and reconciliation of all port and crew movement invoices
Hold signing authority within approved thresholds, ensuring compliance with financial workflows
Drive vendor and port agent negotiations to secure favorable terms and optimize long‑term cost structures
Lead the end‑to‑end implementation, adoption, and optimization of the MXP system across relevant departments
Develop process improvements to enhance workflow efficiency, accuracy, and standardization across port operations
Implement best practices to strengthen documentation, communication, and operational clarity
Provide analytical and operational support for forecasting, cost trending, and port‑specific performance metrics
Partner with fleet and shoreside teams to resolve operational discrepancies and ensure smooth day‑to‑day port activities
Maintain strong working relationships with Port Agents, vendors, and internal stakeholders to ensure alignment and timely issue resolution
Support VP Marine Operations with strategic projects, operational assessments, and continuous improvement initiatives
Qualification
Required
5+ years of progressive Port Operations experience within the cruise industry, with proven leadership responsibility
Strong financial and analytical background, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost management
In‑depth operational understanding of cruise port logistics and vendor/port agent coordination
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills with strong professional integrity
Proven track record of managing complex workflows in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment
Strong ability to manage multiple priorities, balancing urgent operational needs with long‑term strategic initiatives
Proficiency in MXP and Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, Outlook)
Exceptional organizational skills with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail
Demonstrated initiative, self‑motivation, and ability to work both independently and collaboratively
Preferred
Experience with port reservation and invoicing platforms
Benefits
Medical, Dental & Vision
HSA & FSA
Life & Disability
Accident, Hospital & Critical Illness
Pet Insurance
Vacation, Sick Time and paid Holidays
401(k) with Company Match
Employee Assistance Plan
Education Assistance
Employee Discounts & Travel Deals
Company
Xanterra Travel Collection
Xanterra Travel Collection is the largest operator of lodges, restaurants, and other concessions at national and state parks in the United States.
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Recent News
2025-12-05
San Diego Union-Tribune
2024-11-12
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