Location
Geneva, Switzerland
Job Type
Full-Time
Reports to
VP Corporate Communications / dotted line to SVP Government Affairs MSC Group
Job Purpose
This is a vital role within the Cruise Division's Corporate Communications team based in Geneva, forming an integral part of the company’s Communications Department. The position is essential for shaping and aligning the Cruise Division's external positioning across political, regulatory, environmental, and coastal community landscapes. It focuses on translating the Cruise Division’s strategic priorities into impactful communications and engagement plans.
Collaborating closely with the VP of Corporate Communications, the Head of External Affairs will lead the development and execution of the Cruise Division’s global communications strategy. This strategy works in tandem with MSC Group’s Government Affairs team to manage the company’s reputation, build relationships with external stakeholders—including media, industry associations, NGOs, and local communities—and shape public perception through proactive communication and engagement. The role ensures that the Cruise Division’s strategic priorities are transformed into effective plans that meet public and governmental expectations, with a particular emphasis on non-governmental audiences and reputation management.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Planning & Execution
- Translate the Government Affairs strategy into a comprehensive, actionable plan for Corporate Communications, incorporating events, conferences, media interviews, ship visits, and stakeholder engagement.
- Play an active role in shaping the global Community Engagement Plan, ensuring alignment with corporate values and local sensitivities while contributing to the plan's delivery.
- Lead the Company’s Strategic Alignment Group, integrating Communications, Sustainability, Government Affairs, Port Development, Operations, and Shorex teams to ensure consistency on key issues and enhance risk preparedness.
Messaging, Monitoring and Materials
- Develop and regularly update key messages reflecting the Cruise Division’s position on critical regulatory and policy issues to support senior leadership during key meetings and media engagements.
- Ensure consistent messaging across all initiatives by collaborating with internal teams and external partners.
- In partnership with Government Affairs, monitor political and regulatory developments in key markets, providing timely updates and strategic counsel to internal teams.
- Assist in preparing briefing documents for leadership for significant institutional or commercial meetings, coordinating with Government Affairs and other key stakeholders.
Events
- Coordinate the planning and execution of institutional and media ship visits, shore power events, and other initiatives to advance the Cruise Division’s business goals and foster relationships with key stakeholders.
- Work with Government Affairs to develop a strategic plan for conferences and events that will effectively promote the Cruise Division's agenda.
- Provide input on speaker selection, talking points, and representation levels for events.
- Support the development of speeches, talking points, and presentations for these venues.
- Identify sponsorship opportunities for key events.
Stakeholder & Team Coordination
- Represent the Cruise Division within key industry associations (CLIA, FCCA, WTTC) and attend relevant committee meetings to share insights.
- Support the VP of Corporate Communications and regional teams to align corporate communications activities with Government Affairs and business priorities, ensuring the right messaging and approach are utilized.
- Collaborate with Government Affairs to disseminate regular updates and briefing documents on critical issues to appropriate stakeholders, keeping them informed of developments in essential areas.
Qualifications & Experience
- Minimum 15 years of experience in public affairs, government relations, or strategic communications, preferably within a regulated global industry.
- Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex stakeholder ecosystems.
- Exceptional writing and editing skills, including experience in speechwriting and policy communications.
- A deep understanding of European and international political systems and institutions.
- Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and interpersonal skills.
- Native-level proficiency in English; proficiency in additional European languages is a plus.
- Willingness to travel frequently for events, ship visits, and stakeholder meetings.
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.