Managing Director – India (River Cruises)

About the role

Viking River Cruises is establishing a new office in Guwahati to launch two river vessels on the Brahmaputra River. The Managing Director will lead the creation of the office, oversee vessel launch, and take full responsibility for the branch’s ongoing performance.

Key responsibilities

• Set up the new Guwahati office and ensure successful launch of the inaugural vessel in fall 2027 and a second vessel by 2028.
• Lead all operational, financial, legal, and human‑resources activities for the office and ships.
• Define and enforce operational procedures, guest‑service standards, and safety protocols.
• Develop budgeting processes, expense approvals, and financial reporting in line with corporate guidelines.
• Communicate regulatory and legal obligations, including maritime regulations and local laws.
• Manage supplier relationships, external auditors, and partner coordination.
• Represent Viking in institutional settings and support negotiations and staff development.

Required profile

• Proven experience establishing new business operations and offices.
• Strong leadership ability to manage cross‑functional teams across operations, finance, legal, and HR.
• Experience overseeing P&L, budgeting, and compliance in a regulated environment.
• Ability to represent the company with external stakeholders and institutions.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to build a brand‑new operation in a high‑growth market.
• Strategic alignment with Viking’s global corporate team based in Basel.
• Limited regional travel with occasional trips to the Basel head office.