Manager, Product Development

Royal Caribbean Cruises - Miami, FL

Full-time - Mid Level

Miami, FL

Administrative and Support Services

About the position

The Manager, Product Development at Celebrity Cruises is a pivotal role based in Miami, FL, reporting directly to the Senior Director of Product Development. This position is responsible for managing a team that ideates and delivers high-quality products for guests, ensuring that the product vision is communicated effectively to all stakeholders and partners. The Manager will lead the implementation and execution of innovative physical concepts, experiences, activities, dedicated spaces, and new programming for Celebrity Cruises. This role requires a blend of creative thinking, exceptional storytelling capabilities, and proven product development skills, with a strong emphasis on hands-on problem-solving to keep stakeholders aligned with the vision. In addition to overseeing product development, the Manager will manage various strategic rollout efforts for new ships, modernization of the existing fleet, and private destinations. This hands-on role involves managing all elements of the guest experience, from initial briefings through design and execution, ensuring that concepts are realized in alignment with strategic goals and operational feasibility. Collaboration with teams across Product Strategy, Operations, Newbuild, Design, Marketing, and other stakeholders is essential for success in this position. The Manager will also evaluate and make recommendations for existing products to enhance guest satisfaction and drive revenue, utilizing the Operational Excellence process. This includes providing direct management and collaboration with partners to ensure that products created for Celebrity Cruises are viable, feasible, and desirable for guests. The role demands a highly collaborative team dynamic that connects various disciplines to ensure successful product outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Manage a team of two Leads in Product Development, overseeing the ideation and delivery of high-quality products for guests.
• Champion the product vision to stakeholders and partners, ensuring alignment and understanding of goals.
• Lead the implementation and execution of new physical concepts, experiences, and programming for Celebrity Cruises.
• Create guest stories and journeys in presentations to outline business environments, product positioning, and competitive landscapes.
• Accountable for the final delivery of new products and experiences, ensuring they align with the desired guest experience.
• Collaborate with Operations, Newbuild, Marketing, and senior leadership to ensure seamless integration of product development processes.
• Work closely with operations and design teams to lead events showcasing new products and experiences.
• Establish and maintain product development standards and experience design guidelines across all projects.
• Manage the product and experience audit process, delivering regular updates on performance to leadership.
• Develop annual plans for product development in collaboration with Product Strategy, advocating for necessary funding.
• Identify short and long-term goals for the team and manage complex timelines and deliverables effectively.
• Oversee the Operational Excellence program for guest-facing product changes, ensuring thorough planning before implementation.
• Responsible for all aspects of personnel management, including training, coaching, and development of direct reports.

Requirements

• Minimum 3 to 4 years of experience in a physical product, design, or similar role developing consumer experiences.
• Bachelor's degree required.
• Experience in leading teams to bring high-quality physical products to market.
• Proven track record of success in fast-paced environments with aggressive timelines.
• Experience with project management is highly preferred.
• Ability to travel up to 20% of the time.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively to executive levels.
• Strong collaborative skills and ability to achieve results through others.
• Extensive knowledge in the development of physical products and consumer-centric solutions.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working with Architects, Designers, Creatives, and Consultants.
• Comfortable in a startup-like environment and navigating ambiguity.
• Proven ability to craft and tell compelling stories for partners and collaborators.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package
• Career development opportunities
• Unique ways to explore the world through travel and experiences