Director, Shipboard HR & Crew Management

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

To perform this job successfully, the incumbent must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Additional duties may be added or assigned as needed.

Serve as the HR partner to shipboard leadership, providing guidance on employee relations, performance management, conflict resolution, and disciplinary processes. Provide guidance on complex employee relations matters and ensure timely resolution of issues.

Lead workplace investigations for shipboard personnel (e.g., harassment, discrimination, safety, policy violations), partner with General Counsel, ensure proper documentation and compliance, and respond to urgent employee relations issues as needed.

Partner with shipboard and shoreside leadership, including the Sr. Director of HR, to support crew career development, succession planning, and leadership capability building, while designing, implementing, and continuously improving performance management programs for shipboard teams.

Provide strategic oversight and management of third-party crew management partners, ensuring delivery against KPIs related to recruiting, onboarding, scheduling, travel/logistics, and crew experience, while building strong partnerships and driving continuous process improvements to enhance operational efficiency, compliance, and service quality.

Own and manage shipboard crew expense budgets, including wages and travel, ensuring accurate forecasting, cost control, and alignment with financial targets. Partner with Finance and Operations to monitor budget performance, identify cost-saving opportunities, and improve financial efficiency across crew operations.

Own and manage HR compliance requirements for U.S. crew, including background checks, employment eligibility verification, and termination validation, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and company policies.

Develop, implement, and maintain shipboard HR policies, ensuring they are current, consistently applied, and aligned with company standards, legal requirements, and maritime regulations.

Participate in strategic HR planning including compensation design, technology selection, and organizational development

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum 8 years of progressive maritime HR or crew management experience.

Experience in employee relations, performance management, and workplace investigations.

Experience leading projects and change management.

Other Skills/Abilities

Strong leadership, influencing, and stakeholder management skills.

Demonstrated ability to manage complex employee relations issues and investigations.

Financial acumen with experience managing budgets and cost controls.

Excellent problem-solving, negotiation, and conflict resolution abilities.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

Strong project management skills, including change management.

High emotional intelligence and cultural awareness.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, global environment.

Proficient computer skills in Microsoft Office

Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed.

Willingness to travel occasionally to vessels.