Director, APAC - Geylang

Director, Asia Pacific

Summary:

Our client is a global leader in the travel and leisure industry, driving innovation and sustainability to deliver memorable experiences and build meaningful connections. At the same time, it is committed to creating unforgettable moments for its customers, while respecting the environment, communities, and lives it touches.

About the role:

The Director, Asia Pacific, will lead regional crew mobility and travel operations, working closely with manning agencies, business partners, and internal stakeholders to ensure seamless end-to-end travel experiences for crew members across the region.

This newly created role will serve as the face of the Asia Pacific operations, combining operational excellence, business development, and stakeholder management to strengthen crew mobility, drive cost efficiency, and enhance the overall crew experience.

Role and Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategy:

• Establish and lead Asia Pacific crew & travel operations, aligning with global standards.
• Build strategic partnerships with manning agencies, government stakeholders, and vendors to support crew sourcing, mobility, and deployment.
• Act as the face of the company in the region, driving brand presence and fostering strong relationships with key partners.

Operations & Risk Management:

• Oversee end-to-end crew mobility, including scheduling, flights, lodging, immigration, and port logistics.
• Implement risk management strategies to ensure business continuity during crises, emergencies, or travel disruptions.
• Ensure full compliance with regional labour laws, maritime regulations, visa requirements, and health/safety standards.

Business Development & Growth:

• Develop new business opportunities and partnerships that support crew travel efficiency and long-term scalability.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to design innovative travel solutions that reduce costs and improve crew satisfaction.
• Lead financial modelling and budget forecasting for regional travel operations, ensuring fiscal discipline and ROI.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Serve as a senior representative in the Asia Pacific, engaging with manning agencies, vendors, and government partners.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with HR, Operations, and Finance to integrate crew mobility into broader business goals.
• Track launch KPIs, support markets, and guide to oversee plan execution. Champion the crew experience by designing programs that support welfare, safety, and retention

Requirements:

• 12+ years of leadership experience in crew mobility, maritime operations, or global travel management.
• Strong background in the cruise, shipping, or aviation industries; vessel/sea-based leadership experience (e.g., ex-Captain or maritime officer) is highly desirable.
• Proven ability to build and lead business operations from the ground up, with an entrepreneurial mindset.
• Track record in business development, vendor negotiations, and stakeholder engagement across the Asia Pacific region.
• Deep expertise in risk management, operational strategy, and financial modelling.
• Strong partnership management skills, particularly with manning agencies and travel service providers.
• Culturally agile, with global/regional experience and willingness to travel extensively.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and relationship-building skills at the executive level.