About VIVA Cruises

Behind the VIVA Cruises brand is the renowned Swiss shipping company Scylla AG, which currently

owns a fleet of 40 ships. With VIVA Cruises and our company headquarters in Düsseldorf, we are

establishing ourselves as an international river cruise operator on major European waterways. We

take pride in our commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and continuous growth.

Job Overview

The Product Operations Manager plays a pivotal role in shaping and delivering exceptional guest

experiences while ensuring operational excellence. This role bridges strategic planning and day-to-day

execution by coordinating excursions, onboard programs, and vendor partnerships across our fleet.

Reporting to the Senior Product Manager, the Product Operations Manager ensures brand

consistency, addresses logistical challenges, and implements continuous improvements based on

guest feedback. By fostering strong collaboration with onboard teams, corporate departments, and

external partners, this position directly contributes to efficiency, guest satisfaction, and sustainable

growth.

Key Responsibilities

Operations & Logistics

• Serve as the primary contact between the corporate office and ships, ensuring clear

communication and smooth daily operations.

• Monitor and oversee the execution of excursions, events, and onboard programs, ensuring

alignment with brand standards.

• Manage itinerary adjustments and resolve operational issues promptly, keeping all

stakeholders informed.

• Liaise with ports, local authorities, suppliers, and excursion partners to ensure seamless

coordination.

• Support crisis or emergency management, including protocols and contingency planning.

• Oversee budgeting and cost control for operational activities, including forecasting and

expenditure tracking.

Product & Guest Experience

• Collaborate with Cruise Directors and onboard staff to deliver consistent and high-quality

guest experiences.

• Refine and innovate excursion offerings and onboard activities based on feedback and market

trends.

• Ensure brand identity and quality standards are consistently applied across all guest

touchpoints.

• Provide input on the feasibility, logistics, and sustainability of new products and itineraries.

• Participate in product planning meetings, ensuring operational realities are integrated into

product design.

Vendor & Stakeholder Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and service providers, negotiating

contracts and monitoring performance.

• Attend industry events, site inspections, and onboard activities to align with strategic goals

and foster partnerships.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, guest services, and operations teams for

cohesive delivery.

Team Support & Training

• Provide operational training and resources to onboard and shore-based teams.

• Train and supervise staff where needed to support operational excellence.

• Address guest challenges or complaints, assess resolution options, and determine

compensation when applicable.

Qualifications & Skills

• Several years’ experience in cruise, travel, or hospitality operations; river cruise experience a

strong plus.

• Proven ability to manage complex logistics and multiple stakeholders under time-sensitive

conditions.

• Strong leadership and team management skills, with a collaborative mindset.

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.

• Fluent in English; additional European languages (German, French) are an asset.

• Proficiency with operations or scheduling systems and MS Office Suite.

• Flexibility to travel within Europe and spend time onboard as needed.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to shape guest experiences for a growing international river cruise brand.

• A dynamic and multicultural working environment in Düsseldorf

• Flat hierarchies, short decision-making paths, and the ability to bring your ideas to life.

• Competitive salary and benefits package, with opportunities for professional development.

Equal Opportunity

VIVA Cruises is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating

an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment

without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation,

national origin, genetics, disability, or age