Commercial Director - Germany

Job description

Role Overview Our client is a growing European cruise operator known for its no-fly cruises departing from UK and European homeports. Building on this foundation, they are launching a new German-speaking brand — and are seeking a Commercial Director to establish and lead it. This is a rare opportunity to build a cruise business from the ground up: developing the German market, establishing the local organisation, building distribution partnerships, and leading the brand's launch and long-term growth. The Commercial Director is the senior representative of the brand in Germany, working closely with Finance, Marketing, Revenue Management, Operations, Customer Service and Legal, with focus on commercial leadership, business development and market growth The ideal candidate is an entrepreneurial leader who enjoys building businesses and relationships, combines strategic thinking with a hands-on approach, and is comfortable operating within a fast-moving international organisation. Key Responsibilities Strategic & Launch Leadership Develop and execute the German market-entry strategy, business plan and integrated launch programme, ensuring the organisation, proposition and distribution network are ready ahead of ITB Berlin, March 2027. Coordinate launch workstreams across commercial, marketing, finance, legal, technology, customer service and operations; identify and mitigate launch risks. Represent our client at industry events and trade shows, and act as principal link between the German business and the UK Executive Team. Commercial & Sales Lead all German sales channels (trade, direct, online) and deliver annual revenue, passenger volume, occupancy and yield targets. Build long-term relationships with German travel agency groups, co-operatives, cruise specialists, tour operators and online partners; lead key commercial negotiations. Work with UK Digital and Revenue Management teams on the direct sales proposition, pricing, inventory and promotional activity; provide market input into itinerary and product design. Business Operations Establish and run the German office, ensuring effective governance and communication with UK Head Office. Ensure the German customer journey is fully localised (language, documentation, payment, communications) and maintain high service standards pre- and post-cruise. Support homeport readiness, embarkation arrangements and local…