Managing Director Australia & New Zealand

Our Cruise Division is seeking a dynamic Managing Director to oversee and drive the overall strategic direction and growth of our Australia & New Zealand operations for both our brands, Explora Journeys and MSC Cruises. Working closely with the Explora Journeys Head of Sales and MSC Commercial Team, this key leadership role involves managing the commercial team, identifying and unlocking new business development opportunities, and ensuring operational excellence across all functions. The position is located at our office in Sydney.

Your ImpactLeading the overarching go-to-market strategy, focusing on optimizing trade partner relationships and driving sustainable business development in the B2C channels. Reading and interpreting P&Ls, translating insights into actionable plans, and taking full ownership of business performance across the Australian market. Managing expense budgets across marketing and general administrative operations for the Australia/New Zealand office. Ensuring full compliance with local social, legal, and fiscal regulations, and maintaining the integrity of financial processes and reporting.

Identifying and establishing high-value strategic partnerships aligned with our brands’ positioning, aimed at expanding brand awareness, driving direct sales, and enhancing market presence. Working closely with Explora Journeys Head of Sales and MSC Commercial TeamCollaborating closely with key stakeholders across the MSC Group to leverage distribution networks, marketing platforms, and cross-functional synergies, ensuring consistent brand messaging and alignment with company policies and pricing integrity. Collaborating closely with Corporate Revenue teams to drive high-impact initiatives aimed at increasing net ticket yield through optimized pricing strategies and data-driven decision making.

Driving data-informed decision-making by conducting strategic business analysis, using key performance indicators to support revenue growth and successfully meet both gross and net revenue targets. Building and driving a team to own the full marketing funnel with a focus on brand awareness, conversion, and performance tracking — ensuring spend is efficient, effective, and aligned to strategic brand positioning. Championing group, incentive, and charter business development, positioning Explora Journeys as the leading luxury brand in this segment and MSC Cruises as the leading contemporary brand.

Overseeing and optimizing the budget management and forecasting processes, applying a deep understanding of channel mix dynamics and acquisition cost efficiency to maximize profitability. Collaborating with headquarters in Switzerland on strategic initiatives, business reviews, and long-term growth plans to ensure seamless execution and alignment with corporate objectives. Your Journey so farMinimum of 10 years of experience in a similar role in the luxury cruise, travel, or hospitality industries. Excellent sales network or well-known contact base and good knowledge of partners/major customers in the travel industry in Australia and New Zealand.

Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and develop talent. Excellent presentation, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. Proven track record in leading teams, managing P&L, and delivering commercial growth. Entrepreneurial mindset, with strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills. Proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite, particularly PowerPoint. Travel up to 50% of the time. The existing right to live and work in Australia is required. Confidential applications to Philippa Baker