Chief Financial Officer (Tour & Cruise Operator)

Our executive search firm is recruiting a Chief Financial Officer on behalf of a tour and cruise operator. This executive will lead financial strategy, strengthen commercial decision-making, and support sustainable growth across seasonal and destination-based operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, accounting, treasury, and reporting.
• Advise executive leadership and ownership on profitability, investment priorities, and growth decisions.
• Develop financial models for new destinations, vessels, tour programs, partnerships, and acquisitions.
• Monitor booking performance, seasonal cash flow, operating margins, and supplier costs.
• Strengthen internal controls, financial governance, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
• Evaluate route, itinerary, destination, and customer-segment profitability.
• Lead banking, audit, tax, insurance, and external advisory relationships.
• Build and develop a high-performing finance and accounting organization.

The Role

This role requires a seasoned financial leader with deep expertise in seasonal revenue models and multi-location operations, capable of driving strategic financial decisions for a dynamic cruise and tour business.

Requirements

12+ years of progressive financial leadership experience, including executive-level responsibility.

Experience within travel, cruise operations, touring, hospitality, leisure, or another service-based industry.

Demonstrated expertise in forecasting, cash management, financial controls, and commercial analysis.

Strong understanding of seasonal revenue models and multi-location operations.

Experience supporting acquisitions, financing transactions, or significant business investments preferred.

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field required.

CPA, CMA, or MBA strongly preferred.

Ability to travel periodically for leadership meetings and operational reviews.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

20 days of paid vacation

401(k) plan with company contribution

Annual performance incentive

Company-paid life insurance

Short-term and long-term disability coverage

Paid professional memberships and continuing education

Discounted travel and cruise programs