BASEL OFFICE - Destination Manager

About the job

Viking (NYSE: VIK) is a global leader in experiential travel with a fleet of more than 100 ships, exploring 21 rivers, five oceans and all seven continents. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences For The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers and #1 for Oceans five years in a row by Condé Nast Traveler in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking is also rated a “World’s Best” by Travel + Leisure—no other travel company has simultaneously received such honors by both publications.

Please note that we can only accept applicants who are eligible to work in Switzerland or in possession of a valid work permit.

ROLE DESCRIPTION

• As a member of the Destination Management Team, the Destination Manager creates a variety of shore experiences ranging from a few hours to several days, for all ports in a specific region of the world. S/he defines each excursion, provides the needed details to the team’s copy writers, helps with the marketing positioning of the entire range of activities selected for each port and determines the right mix of inventory for the ship’s guests, with the aim to optimize choice, quantity, quality and revenue.

• The Destination Manager supports the ships’ onboard teams and local vendors in the efficient execution of the shore programs and provides assistance in training of staff and problem resolution.

• This role is based in our Operational Headquarters in Basel, Switzerland.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare comprehensive planning layouts, detailing shore excursions, P&L, competitive review and quality data for core destinations

• Conceptualize enhancements to existing shore products and develop solutions for current quality challenges – own the entire destination management cycle, from concept to test to implementation to quality evaluation for core products

• Lead price negotiations, initiate bidding processes and finalize contracts, set rates etc.

• Liaise with vendors and shipboard resources to implement shore excursion changes

• Provide operational support to on-board teams for all destination programs and during crisis situations

• Create and accurately administer inventory and track it across systems

• Review content of all pertinent collateral (e-mails, handouts, itinerary descriptions) that are part of a destination delivery (pre-, post-and during cruise) for accuracy

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

• Significant experience and proven track record of managing logistics, overseeing budgets, and developing enriching and culturally relevant programs.

• At least 3 years of experience in all aspects of destination development and delivery, including day-to-day operations and crisis management; feasibility, P&L and competitive analysis; inventory management.

• Travel/ hospitality industry experience in the Northern Europe/Scandinavia region is an important plus

• Excellent creative and conceptual skills in developing destination experiences.

• Passion for providing an enriching travel experience.

• Comprehensive general education and knowledge of geography, history, natural history, culture and current affairs of the core destination area.

• Highly detail-oriented and organized work style.

• Excellent communication skills, ability to perform under pressure, willingness and wherewithal to make decisions, a well-developed sense of quality in delivery; the ability to work in a fast-paced environment and function effectively within a diverse, international group of colleagues.

• You have excellent dexterity with MS Office Suite knowledge.

• You have excellent written and verbal English skills. Proficiency in any of the Scandinavian languages is a strong plus.

EDUCATION

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in hospitality management, business administration or related field from an accredited college or university or the international equivalent preferred

NICE TO HAVE QUALIFICATIONS

• Travel/ hospitality industry experience is an important plus

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

• Fast-growing and dynamic environment, a modern workspace, flexible working hours

HOW TO APPLY

Please apply via our website www.vikingcareers.com, including your CV in English and a one-page cover letter to introduce yourself and your interest for the role.

For more details about this position, contact us under +41 61 638 60 11

*Unsolicited submissions of candidates from agencies will not be considered*