Safety at sea starts with cast members like Alex, a Safety Operations Manager with Disney Cruise Line
Sailing the seven seas is no easy feat – but with amazing cast members like Alex, we can rest assured knowing we’re sailing away safely. With operational needs changing on a daily basis onboard our Disney Cruise Line fleet and island destinations in The Bahamas, the team working behind the scenes to ensure safety and compliance is vital to keep our guests, cast and crew out of harm’s way.
As a Safety Operations Manager, Alex works to make certain all operational activities, both shipboard and land-based, are conducted in a safe, compliant and efficient manner. “My day-to-day responsibilities involve a blend of strategic oversight and direct engagement with cross-functional teams, equipment and operational processes to drive a strong safety culture and maintain regulatory compliance,” Alex explains.
Safety Operations Managers at Disney Cruise Line are responsible for fleet and private island safety operations, ensuring compliance with all national and international rules, regulations and class requirements. These valued cast members collaborate with safety managers and shipboard crew, verify company safety standards are respected while meeting statutory requirements and national standards, and so much more to keep everyone safe.
The journey to this role was a labor of love, with Alex holding many accolades under his belt. “Throughout my career, I’ve held various roles that built a solid foundation for my current position as a Safety Operations Manager. Each step provided critical skills, from technical safety knowledge to leadership and communication. I went to sea as a Deck Officer in 2007, before transitioning into a shore-based role in 2019, and have consistently remained within the maritime industry, working in safety, project management and technical roles,” Alex says.
Throughout his various roles, one thing is apparent: the Disney difference. According to Alex, “What makes working for Disney Cruise Line unique is the strong blend of safety, teamwork and delivering an exceptional guest experience, along with maintaining safe work environments for our shipboard team. Safety isn’t just a requirement. It’s part of the culture, encouraging collaboration and continuous improvement through a diverse team working together to create magical and safe experiences. It’s rewarding to be part of a company that genuinely values both people and performance at such a high level.”
His favorite part of his role as a Safety Operations Manager? “Being able to make a meaningful impact on the safety and well-being of our cast, crew and guests every single day,” he says. “Knowing that the systems and culture we help build and work with directly contribute to maintaining a safe operational environment is incredibly rewarding.”
His advice for maritime professionals considering a career as a Safety Operations Manager with Disney Cruise Line is pertinent: “I recommend possessing strong knowledge of marine safety regulations, as well as hands-on experience. Strong communication skills and the ability to work with diverse teams are essential. Be open to learning and adapting and embrace Disney’s unique culture that combines safety with exceptional guest service. Balancing technical expertise with leadership and teamwork is key to success.”
Alex’s future is bright with Disney Cruise Line on the horizon. “Every day is different, and I love being in a role where I’m constantly learning, adapting and improving how we operate. Supporting major operations and ensuring everything is done safely and to the highest standards is truly a career highlight.” Life at sea is sure to be secure with our amazing cast and crew working to keep our fleet and island destinations safe and protected.
Inspired by Alex’s journey as a Safety Operations Manager and want to join our amazing team? Explore open roles at DCLJobs.com.
