The Director of Charter is responsible for defining and executing the global commercial strategy for exclusive yacht charters aboard the ultra-luxury Orient Express Yacht. This leadership role drives revenue growth, oversees high-level client partnerships, and ensures the flawless delivery of bespoke charter experiences aligned with the prestige and heritage of the Orient Express brand.
Reporting directly to the Chief Commercial Officer, the Director leads strategic sales initiatives, manages key stakeholder relationships, and collaborates cross-functionally with ACCOR Global Sales, the Orient Express Management Company, and shipboard leadership to position the yacht as a premier ultra-luxury charter destination worldwide.
Key responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Revenue Ownership
- Develop and implement the global charter commercial strategy, aligning with overall brand and revenue objectives.
- Own and deliver annual revenue targets for full yacht charters segment, with clear forecasting, budgeting, and performance tracking.
- Identify market opportunities, emerging trends, and competitive positioning to drive long-term growth.
- Define pricing strategy, contracting frameworks, and commercial policies in coordination with senior leadership.
- Establish KPIs and reporting structures to measure performance, profitability, and client acquisition effectiveness.
Business Development & Global Partnerships
- Lead high-level business development efforts targeting top-tier yacht charter brokers, family offices, UHNW clientele, global corporations, luxury travel advisors, and premier event agencies.
- Cultivate and manage strategic partnerships within the global yacht charter ecosystem.
- Represent Orient Express Yacht at key international trade shows, luxury travel forums, and industry events.
- Drive collaboration with ACCOR Global Sales and regional sales offices to maximize global reach and cross-selling opportunities.
- Oversee complex negotiations for full yacht buyouts and high-value incentive programs.
Client & Stakeholder Leadership
- Act as executive point of contact for key accounts and high-value charter clients.
- Ensure a consultative sales approach that translates client vision into bespoke, ultra-luxury experiences.
- Maintain long-term strategic relationships to generate repeat business and brand advocacy.
- Oversee contract negotiation, commercial terms, and risk management in collaboration with Legal and Finance teams.
Operational & Cross-Functional Alignment
- Partner closely with Marine Operations, Hotel Services, Culinary, and Shipboard Leadership to ensure seamless execution of charter programs.
- Provide strategic direction during program design to ensure feasibility, profitability, and brand alignment.
- Lead post-event reviews and performance evaluations to continuously refine the charter offering.
- Oversee sales administration processes, CRM governance, budgeting, and financial tracking for the segment.
Team Leadership & Organizational Development
- Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing Charter sales team as the business scales.
- Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and ultra-luxury service mindset.
- Provide coaching on negotiation, account management, and strategic selling techniques.
- Collaborate with Marketing to develop targeted campaigns and high-impact sales collateral for the segment.