Charting New Waters: Why MacKenzie Took Her HR Career to Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line Human Resources Manager MacKenzie always knew she wanted to work for Disney, but she never expected her career to take her to sea! Her Disney journey started in 2013 when she participated in the Disney College Program at Walt Disney World Resort. Once her program ended, she moved back to her home state, Minnesota, where she discovered the human resources field and began her career as a Human Resources Manager.
“I always knew I wanted to help people, and in HR, we can help individuals in a variety of different ways,” she explains.
MacKenzie working in her office on the Disney Treasure.
MacKenzie knew she wanted to find her way back to Disney, but when a former colleague suggested a role with Disney Cruise Line, she was skeptical at first. After learning more about the position, she was immediately interested when she realized it would give her the chance to work with individuals from all over the world.
“What other opportunity would you have to work with people from so many different countries? Especially in Minnesota!”
MacKenzie has been working with the shipboard Human Resources teams for over three years now and even had the opportunity to open the Disney Treasure in December. She’s passionate about contributing to a positive crew member experience.
“Crew members are sometimes hesitant to come to HR because of the stigma that's around it, but at the end of the day we are here to help support crew with their overall well-being, whether that's personal or professional,” she says. “Creating a safe space and a safe environment where people feel comfortable, especially being so far away from home, is extremely important to me.”
MacKenzie with some of the Human Resources teams she has worked with.
There are many lines of business that support Disney Cruise Line and the Human Resources team works with all of them. MacKenzie credits building strong relationships, good rapport and understanding each area’s day-to-day operation as the key to managing the variety of partners and creating an exceptional guest experience.
“We’re not a guest facing team,” she explains, “but we’re supporting those who are, so we have to make sure we understand the dynamics of the different departments. Then we can provide that outside perspective when working through challenges or different opportunities to enhance the overall experience for our crew and our guests.”
LEFT: MacKenzie using her free time to explore Norway. RIGHT: MacKenzie after graduating Leadership Essentials, a career development offering for crew members.
There are a lot of perks that come with working for Disney Cruise Line, like traveling the world and growing your career with a world-renowned company. But MacKenzie’s favorite part? The crew members!
“There are not many places where you can bring the best people from all around the world to one place. I really enjoy getting to know people from different backgrounds, cultures, ideas and ways of thinking. We kind of blend that together, respecting one another and supporting one another to achieve the same goal.”
Inspired by MacKenzie’s story and interested in setting sail on your own Human Resources career journey with Disney Cruise Line? Head to DCLJobs.com to explore open roles and apply.