VP of Uniworld Technology

Description

ABOUT US

Our philosophy at The Travel Corporation (TTC) is simple, we create enriching experiences for travelers by combining an unbeatable mix of exceptional service and quality at great value. As a global business with over 100 years of experience in the travel industry, our ethos of being ‘Driven by Service’, ensures we keep our values of passion, people and purpose at the heart of everything we do - designing and running immersive, innovative and responsible travel experiences for our guests across 70 countries. Join us in creating life-changing moments for every guest across our award-winning brands and experience the TTC difference. 

OUR VALUES

• Driven by service
• An inherent passion for travel
• Commitment to our customers and to our people
• Commitment to social responsibility and our 5-year sustainability strategy

POSITION SUMMARY

The VP of Uniworld Technology will lead and manage all technology operations and strategy for the River Cruising business. Based in Los Angeles, the role will serve as a senior Tech leader, partnering with business stakeholders to deliver technology solutions that drive operational efficiency, enhance guest experience, and support growth. This individual will align Tech initiatives with the overall business goals aligned to the Value Creation Plan (VCP) and provide thought leadership on digital innovation in the cruise industry.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

Strategic Tech Leadership:

• Develop and execute a robust Tech roadmap aligned with river cruising business and VCP goals.
• Serve as the primary Tech liaison for senior business leaders and external technology partners.

Project Management & Delivery:

• Lead end-to-end delivery of Tech projects, from requirements gathering to post-launch support.
• Implement scalable solutions for onboard technology such as a new reservation solution and embracing TTC’s Tech landscape and resources.
• Drive continuous improvement in project delivery through lessons learned and performance reviews.
• Ensure consistent use of project management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall, Hybrid).

Guest Experience Technology:

• Drive innovation in guest-facing technology such as Wi-Fi/connectivity, mobile apps, entertainment systems, and digital check-in/check-out.
• Support the integration of CRM, loyalty programs, and personalized content delivery across digital platforms.

Application & Platform Management:

• Oversee the selection and implementation and optimization of core systems, including booking/reservation engines, POS systems, crew management software etc.
• Ensure system integration across platforms and data consistency for analytics and reporting.

Team Leadership:

• Build and manage a high-performing Tech team.
• Mentor staff and support career development.
• Foster a collaborative culture focused on innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Vendor & Partner Management:

• Evaluate, select, and manage third-party vendors.
• Negotiate contracts and SLAs to ensure quality and cost-efficiency.

Requirements

ROLE SUCCESS CRITERIA

• % of Tech projects delivered on time and within budget.
• Customer satisfaction scores related to digital/Tech services.
• Employee engagement scores within the Tech team.
• Operational cost savings enabled by Tech solutions.
• Speed of implementation for digital/AI enhancements.

KEY INDIVIDUAL TRAITS

• Adaptability – The ability to navigate and respond effectively to change in a fast-paced industry.
• Collaborative: Builds strong relationships and works cross-functionally with a consultative, co-creative approach to influence and align others in a fast-paced environment.  
• Resilience – Maintains performance and composure in the face of setbacks, challenges, or pressure.

YOUR EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE

• Bachelor’s degree in information technology, Computer Science, or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive Tech leadership experience, including 3–5 years in a senior or head-of-IT role.
• Proven track record in managing enterprise-level Tech operations and large-scale technology projects.
• Strong knowledge of enterprise systems (CRM, POS, booking/reservation platforms).

Desirable Experience:

• Master’s degree (e.g., MBA, MIS) preferred.
• Industry certifications (e.g., ITIL, PMP, CISSP, AWS Certified Solutions Architect) are a plus.
• Hands-on experience implementing onboard technology solutions (e.g., Wi-Fi, digital signage, safety tech).
• Familiarity with regulatory and compliance requirements for cruise operations (e.g., GDPR, SOLAS).
• Experience managing Tech in a multinational, multi-site environment.
• Experience working within travel, hospitality, cruise, or maritime industries is a plus.

TRAVEL & OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Work Location: Hybrid, in Calabasas, CA