A distinguished premium cruise travel company, celebrated as a top employer and recipient of multiple workplace excellence awards, is launching its Australian division. They are searching for an accomplished travel industry executive to pioneer this new market venture and build the foundation for long-term regional success. As the most senior local representative, you will report directly to global leadership and take full ownership of the Australian launch from regulatory compliance and operational infrastructure to recruiting the initial team and defining service delivery processes. The Role Build and nurture talent across sales and operational functions, with future opportunities to expand leadership into the wider APAC region Champion the organisation's culture and values, ensuring they are deeply embedded within the Australian workforce Oversee the complete Australian customer lifecycle, spanning pre-booking engagement through post-travel support Create and implement the Australian commercial strategy aligned with broader company goals Spearhead the complete launch of Australian operations, encompassing compliance frameworks, workflow design, and infrastructure setup Generate revenue growth via onboard booking programmes and referral channels Guide and develop the Sales Management team to consistently surpass performance benchmarks Maintain exceptional service standards while tracking and improving customer satisfaction metrics Requirements Essential Composed, adaptable, and performs effectively in high-pressure situations Advanced data analysis capabilities paired with demonstrated people management expertise Operates autonomously with integrity and a values-driven leadership style Meticulous attention to detail with an unwavering focus on customer satisfaction Demonstrated success in developing and delivering senior-level sales strategies Outstanding interpersonal and written communication abilities Proven leadership background within the luxury travel industry Accomplished sales leadership with strong negotiation expertise Preferred Background in launching new territories or establishing teams from scratch Prior experience in luxury or ultra-luxury cruise travel (highly desirable) Benefits Holiday discount programme Superannuation contributions (Australian standards) Comprehensive healthcare allowance Time off for charitable activities and volunteering Base salary up to $155,000 AUD (commensurate with experience) Travel allowance Familiarisation cruise opportunities First-year performance bonus plus long-term incentive plan spanning 4–5 years Flexible work arrangements 31 days of paid annual leave Future Trajectory This position carries substantial growth potential. As the Australian operation matures, the successful candidate will be positioned to assume expanded AU/APAC leadership responsibilities, playing a central role in the company's broader regional expansion strategy. Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to equal employment opportunity. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, sex, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, family or carer's responsibilities, pregnancy, breastfeeding, gender identity, intersex status, religion, political opinion, national extraction, social origin, or any other attribute protected under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) and applicable federal and state anti-discrimination legislation. 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Compliance with Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth), the National Employment Standards (NES), applicable Modern Awards, and all relevant federal, state, and territory laws governing employment and non-discrimination in Australia. This includes compliance with the Age Discrimination Act 2004, Sex Discrimination Act 1984, Disability Discrimination Act 1992, and Racial Discrimination Act 1975. Workplace Harassment: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment, bullying, or sexual harassment. We are committed to maintaining a safe and respectful workplace in accordance with work health and safety legislation and the Fair Work Act's protections against sexual harassment. Privacy Notice: The personal information of job applicants is handled in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and the Australian Privacy Principles. Information collected during the recruitment process, including CVs, references, and background check results, will only be used for purposes directly related to assessing your suitability for employment. You have the right to access and request correction of your personal information. For more information, please contact us or visit the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner at oaic.gov.au. Superannuation: Successful candidates employed in Australia will receive superannuation contributions in accordance with the Superannuation Guarantee (Administration) Act 1992. The current contribution rate is 11.5% of ordinary time earnings, increasing to 12% from 1 July 2025. Visa and Work Rights: Applicants must have valid work rights in Australia or be eligible for employer-sponsored visa arrangements where applicable. We comply with all requirements under the Migration Act 1958 (Cth). How to Raise Concerns: If you believe you have experienced discrimination during the recruitment process, you may contact the Fair Work Commission, the Fair Work Ombudsman, the Australian Human Rights Commission, or your relevant state or territory anti-discrimination agency. Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process.