HR professionals at sea: Christina and Sharòn deliver an engaging experience for crew members onboard
At Disney Cruise Line, there is a special group of individuals whose role is to create meaningful moments for crew members navigating their career at sea—our human resources team! Each day, this group of professionals focuses on providing a positive crew member experience and engaging culture backstage across our ships. Christina, crew engagement manager on the Disney Wish and Sharòn, learning & development manager on the Disney Fantasy, share journey onboard and their passion for providing an excellent crew experience.
“Our crew members are here to create magic for the guests cruising, and as HR professionals we’re here to make magic for them in return. During their contract, we help make the ship feel like their home away from home—not just a workplace,” Christina said.
Whether it’s through developing a comprehensive training schedule or putting together an exciting holiday celebration, our human resources professionals onboard go above and beyond to make everyone feel welcome.
Christina, Crew Engagement Manager
As a leader of people, Christina advocates for inclusion and positivity in the workplace as well as finding balance while living onboard. Her philosophy began when she worked at the Disney Reservation Center in Florida before joining the Disney Cruise Line team. During her time there, Christina’s leadership team planned fun activities like character meet-and-greets, contests and even Disney dress-up days, all which made it exciting to go clock in every day.
When Christina became a crew engagement manager, there was no doubt that she wanted to provide the same unique treatment for her team. In her role, she organizes engaging activities for the crew onboard such as celebrating holidays backstage, bingo, and other fun activities for them to experience some of the pixie dust which they help create every day. “I like to offer a variety of ways to help them stay motivated, active and enjoying their time onboard to the fullest.”
Christina takes pride in contributing to The Walt Disney Company’s mission of creating happiness for people of all ages everywhere. “I think my role is the most rewarding way to continue Disney’s legacy of inspiring others,” Christina said.
Sharòn, Learning & Development Manager
Growing up in sunny South Africa, Sharòn gained years of experience in the hospitality industry. But, it was after completing her Master’s degree hospitality management from The University of Johannesburg that she discovered a strong interest for training and leading a team. Her passion came to fruition when she joined the Disney Cruise Line team almost three years ago as a learning and development manager.
For Sharòn, learning and development is all about providing the necessary guidance for crew to feel equipped not only in their role but also throughout their career journey. For example, when new hires arrive for the first time, Sharòn assembles a customized schedule for each person to introduce them to the ship operations and set them up for success in their work location. “I am the very first person our new hires see as they arrive at the port terminal, and I want to leave a positive first impression of the team by being welcoming and guiding them through the onboarding process.” Sharòn’s role is an important part of the crew member experience as she successfully guides individuals throughout their contract.
Sharòn also oversees the “career navigation” internal program for crew looking to pursue roles in other shipboard departments. She also facilitates talent management training sessions to guide crew into new growth opportunities with Disney Cruise Line. She takes pride in being able to develop individuals across all levels and positions, and pour into their learning experiences while working at sea. “We invest in our current and future leaders. This company values caring for their employees because ‘happy crew equals happy guests’ has proven to be true!”
Being a HR leader can be quite busy somedays, but Sharòn feels encouraged to lean on the rest of the team that supports her. “We are a dynamic team that shares ideas and collaborates to give the crew the best experience possible onboard. Also, I enjoy working in a multi-cultural environment with such a diverse team who all come from very different backgrounds.”
Disney’s unique company culture is shaped by passionate leaders like Christina and Sharòn, that provide meaningful moments not only for guests but also for the employees. From the memorable stories, popular characters and immersive experiences, the magic cannot be found anywhere else other than Disney.
Do you have a passion for leading people and want to join our human resources team onboard? Explore available roles and apply online now at DCLjobs.com!
