Location
Geneva, Switzerland
Job Type
Full-Time
Reports to
VP Corporate Communications / dotted line to SVP Government Affairs MSC Group
Job Purpose
This important role within the Cruise Division’s Corporate Communications team based in Geneva is integral to the company’s Communications Department. This position is crucial for shaping and aligning the Cruise Division’s external positioning across political, regulatory, environmental, and coastal community landscapes. It translates the Cruise Division’s strategic priorities into impactful, actionable communications and engagement plans.
Working closely with the VP of Corporate Communications, the Head of External Affairs will spearhead the development and execution of the Cruise Division’s global communications strategy in collaboration with MSC Group’s Government Affairs team. This strategy focuses on managing the company’s reputation, establishing relationships with external stakeholders, such as media, industry associations, NGOs, and local communities, and shaping public perception through proactive communication and engagement.
This role ensures that the Cruise Division’s strategic priorities are effectively communicated to align with public and governmental expectations, prioritizing non-governmental audiences and reputation management.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Planning & Execution
- Translate the Government Affairs strategy into a comprehensive, actionable plan for the Corporate Communications, covering events, conferences, media interviews, ship visits, and stakeholder engagement.
- Contribute actively to shaping the global Community Engagement Plan, ensuring alignment with corporate values and local sensitivities while participating in the delivery of the plan.
- Lead the Company’s Strategic Alignment Group, integrating efforts from Communications, Sustainability, Government Affairs, and Port Development, Port Operations, and Shorex teams for coherent messaging and risk preparedness.
Messaging, Monitoring, and Materials
- Develop and regularly update key messaging that reflects the Cruise Division’s position on critical regulatory and policy issues. Share messages with senior leadership to support meetings, events, and media engagements.
- Ensure consistent and aligned messaging across all activities, collaborating closely with internal teams and external partners.
- In collaboration with Government Affairs, monitor relevant political and regulatory developments in key markets and provide timely updates and strategic counsel to Government Affairs and Corporate Communications.
- Assist in preparing briefing documents for leadership ahead of key institutional or commercial meetings or events, working in concert with Government Affairs and other stakeholders.
Events
- Coordinate the planning and execution of institutional and media ship visits, shore power events, and other gatherings to advance the Cruise Division’s business objectives while fostering strong relationships with stakeholders.
- Collaborate with Government Affairs to develop a strategic plan for conferences and events that will serve as vital platforms for promoting the Cruise Division’s agenda.
- Provide necessary inputs regarding speaker selection, talking points, and representation levels.
- Support the development of speeches, talking points, and presentations for these engagements.
- Identify sponsorship opportunities for key events.
Stakeholder & Team Coordination
- Represent the Cruise Division with key industry associations (CLIA, FCCA, WTTC) and attend relevant committee meetings, sharing insights and information.
- Assist the VP of Corporate Communications and local market teams to ensure corporate communications activities align with Government Affairs and business priorities, equipped with appropriate messaging.
- Collaborate with Government Affairs to share and disseminate regular updates and briefing documents on significant issues with appropriate internal stakeholders to keep them informed on developments.
Qualifications & Experience
- Minimum of 15 years of experience in public affairs, government relations, or strategic communications, preferably within a regulated global industry.
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex stakeholder environments.
- Exceptional writing and editing skills, with experience in speechwriting and policy communications.
- In-depth understanding of European and international political systems and institutions.
- Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
- Native-level 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.