COLOGNE - Senior Manager Service Hub Cologne

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused voyages on oceans, rivers and lakes around the world. Designed for experienced travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences for The Thinking Person®.

Viking has more than 250 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers, #1 for Oceans and #1 for Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler and voted at the top of its categories by Travel + Leisure. No other cruise line has ever received these same honors by both publications at the same time.

Viking offers a fast-growing and dynamic working environment and flexible working hours. Please note that we can only accept applicants who are eligible to work in Germany or are in possession of a valid work permit.

ROLE DESCRIPTION

The Senior Manager Service Hub is part of the Maintenance and Repair Operations (MRO) that ensures 24/7 technical support and consistent technical operation and safety standards across the Viking River Cruises fleet in the respective region. This position collaborates closely with regional managers and oversees quality assurance, risk management, and strategic alignment, ensuring seamless operations and adherence to global standards.

The Senior Manager Service Hub oversees a staff of 10+ employees, coordinates with various departments such as the Nautical, Onboard Operations, IT departments and reports to the Senior Manager Technical.

The role is based in Cologne, Germany and involves intensive traveling to shipyards, external vendors and docking locations across Europe.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Maintenance operations

• Implement quality standards, inspections, and maintenance practices within regional teams.

• Monitor compliance with safety regulations, industry standards, and internal policies such as SOPs.

• Coordinate maintenance-related risk mitigation efforts with Senior Maintenance Managers.

• Manage local vendors and continuous review of their performance.

• Identify training needs and professional development opportunities for maintenance staff.

• Conduct regular training sessions on quality standards and best practices for the Team.

Leadership & stakeholder management

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement.

• Facilitate knowledge sharing and best practices across regions.

• Ensure alignment with global strategies and quality goals.

• Facilitate communication between regional and central teams.

• Lead and develop the Service Hub and local Winter Harbor.

• Reports to the Senior Manager Technical

KEY QUALIFICATIONS

Functional skills

• Proven track record in managing and leading technical teams in a maritime environment.

• Strong understanding of maintenance best practices, including predictive and preventive maintenance.

• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to make data-driven decisions.

• Demonstrated ability to implement quality assurance processes and ensure compliance with safety regulations and industry standards.

Education and professional experience

• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in technical operations within the maritime industry.

• Experience with modern maintenance management software and systems.

• A degree in Mechanical Engineering, Marine Engineering, or a related field is an asset.

Leadership Skills

• Strong leadership skills with the ability to mentor and develop team members.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with all levels of the organization.

• High level of organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.

• Strong focus on continuous improvement and innovation in maintenance practices.

• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing priorities and environments.

Other requirements

• Language skills: Language skills: English (oral and written) on a business level. German is a plus.

• Professional appearance and demeanor

• Willingness and ability to travel extensively within the operational areas, including potential international travel and regular 24/7 Hotline Duty.

• Proficient in using MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and maintenance management software.

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 Marta Pikusa under +41 61 638 60 11.