At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead unforgettable entertainment experiences while travelling the world on Cunard's iconic ships.
- Company: Cunard, a market leader in the cruise industry with a focus on exceptional guest experiences.
- Benefits: Paid flights, comprehensive training, free meals, and discounted shore excursions.
- Other info: Inclusive culture where everyone is valued; excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Create lasting memories for guests while exploring diverse cultures and destinations.
- Qualifications: Experience in entertainment leadership, live theatre, and managing international teams.
The predicted salary is between 29700 - 36300 £ per year.
Create unforgettable moments. Travel the world. Lead exceptional entertainment.
While travelling the world, would you like to play a central role in creating unforgettable holiday experiences for our guests aboard Cunard’s iconic ships?
As a market leader in the cruise industry, Cunard sails spectacular ships all over the world.
Join us and you’ll discover that working at sea is more than just a job.
It’s a way of life.
During your Cunard career you could explore all four corners of the world, visiting destinations from Alaska to Japan, and more than 70 countries in between.
Explore new cultures, meet incredible new friends, and gain experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime.
The Role
As Assistant Entertainment Director, you’ll be second in command of the Entertainment department, supporting the Entertainment Director in curating and delivering a refined, world‑class entertainment programme for our international guests.
You’ll play a key role in both the creative and operational success of the department, ensuring flawless delivery while protecting the integrity of the Cunard brand.
With a highly visible presence onboard, you’ll lead premium entertainment experiences across the ship, balancing operational excellence with memorable guest engagement.
- What You’ll Be Doing
- Deputise for the Entertainment Director, ensuring the seamless delivery of Cunard’s entertainment programme
- Curate and oversee a premium, consistent entertainment offering across all venues
- Lead the Queens Room and International Entertainment programmes with strong guest connection and brand focus
- Coach, manage and develop the Activity Manager, International Hosts and Dance Hosts
- Oversee departmental operations, including logistics, safety duties and venue coordination
- Support revenue planning, Sail Away events, speaker programmes and flagship events, including Illuminations
- What We’re Looking For
- Proven experience in an entertainment leadership role onboard a cruise ship
- Experience managing and inspiring international teams
- A strong background in live theatre and varied show environments
- Experience managing budgets and delivering against revenue targets
- Broad knowledge of entertainment programming, including concerts, theatre and individual acts
- Excellent written and spoken English with confident communication skills
- Why Join Cunard
- Paid flights from your home country
- Comprehensive training, including “new to sea” support
- Crew gym, fitness classes, and sports courts
- Free crew bikes to explore destinations
- Free Whats App messaging + flexible internet packages
- Meals and complimentary beverage stations
- Discounted crew shore excursions
- Onboard medical services
- A culture where everyone feels valued and included
We are working hard to build a flexible and inclusive culture.
As part of our culture difference is valued and our people can be themselves.
We welcome applications from everyone because inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do.
We do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marriage & civil partnership and pregnancy & maternity.
At Cunard, we collaborate with a variety of reputable agencies who will never ask you to pay a hiring fee or any other associated monies in order to submit an application to us.
All applications are reviewed against the same criteria and using an agency will not increase your chances of being successful.
Before starting an assignment with Carnival UK (P&O Cruises & Cunard), it may be necessary for you to obtain essential compliance documents or undertake training, initially at your cost.
A number of these costs are refundable after your first assignment has begun; for further information, please speak to your recruitment contact.
Cunard - Assistant Entertainment Director employer: Carnival
Carnival UK is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and personal growth, offering a vibrant work culture where innovation thrives. As a Product Owner in our Digital department, you'll enjoy benefits such as discounted cruising, a generous leave policy, and opportunities for professional development, all while contributing to creating unforgettable holiday experiences. Join us in a hybrid work environment that fosters collaboration and empowers you to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cunard - Assistant Entertainment Director
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Carnival. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Carnival
Don't be shy about reaching out to Carnival directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Cunard - Assistant Entertainment Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Carnival and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Carnival
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!