Program Planning Manager

Every day at Disney Cruise Line we take pride in bringing the magic of Disney to life. We find joy in creating cherished memories and form genuine connections with our guests. We hold each other to the highest degree and always act responsibly while ensuring the safety of fellow cast, crew and guests. United by our Disney values, we work toward excellence in all we do. As a part of our team, you can work in a diverse and inclusive environment amidst a professional and supportive community. If you are ready to create unforgettable experiences and grow as a person and as a professional, apply today.

This role supports the Port Strategy, Development, and Operations Integration team of Disney Cruise Line and leads a variety of integration and planning functions across port development and island destination initiatives. The successful candidate will blend technical expertise, strategic planning, and project management skills to drive long-term investment planning, stakeholder coordination, and execution oversight for DCL’s global port and island destination assets.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain an integrated facilities planning (IFP) multi-year investment plan for DCL island destination assets, supporting both new development and long-term sustainment strategies.
• Collaborate with DCL leadership to define business strategies, goals, and performance metrics for island destination infrastructure while serving as an advisor and thought partner lending technical, project management, facility construction, and multi-discipline coordination expertise for port development, island destination, and operations integration projects.
• Partner with subject matter experts across DCL and the Disney Experiences enterprise to refine asset strategies (life cycle analysis, reinvestment strategies, etc.) and assess impacts on current and future planning.
• Oversee and drive complex program planning outcomes, championing collaboration and facilitation across multiple DCL departments (Maintenance, Technical Operations, Lines of Business (e.g. Island Operations, Food & Beverage, etc.). and external partners.
• Prepare and deliver executive-level presentations that communicate planning insights, project status, and strategic recommendations.
• Identify and understand project-related impacts on all Lines of Business
• Facilitate communication and coordination with local island, shoreside, and global partners to support integrated planning efforts including maintaining integrated schedules for island enhancement efforts with updates from WDI and Operations, monitor trends, and identify risks
• Independent contributor that will work with clients, project management and scheduling teams to advance planning through final program reviews which also may include hosting project meetings, develop and maintain project plans, track progress, and document decisions and action plans.
• Facilitate and manage the integrated facilities planning (IFP) program review process.
• Develop detailed scopes and justifications for near-term DCL island destination projects, ensuring readiness for executive approval.
• Lead scope development discussions with DCL stakeholders and subject matter experts and represent key functional areas (Island Operations, Security, Technology, Safety, Recreation, Food & Beverage, etc.) throughout design and construction to ensure projects and facility enhancements meet DCL standards and operating requirements.
• Provide leadership and mentorship opportunities within the Operations Integration planning team along with supporting the Sr. Manager, Port Strategy, Development and Operations Integration in serving as an Owner’s Representative for third-party port development partnerships and investments and providing general integration support based on organizational needs and priorities.
• Leverage planning software and asset management systems to support DCL’s Integrated Facilities Planning efforts.
• Conduct statistical research and data analysis to inform planning decisions and optimize asset performance.
• Provide project development support to other DCL projects, as needed, including process re-engineering efforts and general growth initiatives related to port and island infrastructure efforts.
  
  
  

Basic Qualifications:

• 6 years experience in the construction industry or similar industries
• 6 years experience working with project and program partners and team members.
• Highly motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently.
• Strong project management, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple initiatives and shift priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Experience working with cross-functional teams and influencing diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, SmartSheet, and asset management systems (e.g., Tririga).
• Ability to synthesize input from multiple sources and develop clear, actionable recommendations.
• Strong presentation skills with the ability to convey complex data and insights to executive audiences.
• Familiarity with construction and maintenance methods and terminology.
• Demonstrated experience in operations project management, strategic planning, or other relevant disciplines with a proven track record of driving projects to completion.
  
  
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience within Disney Cruise Line or Disney Parks, Experiences and Products.
• Facility or asset management experience in a cruise or themed entertainment environment.
• Ability to work across time zones and adapt to operational schedules.
• Experience with new technologies that enhance planning and execution processes.
• Proven ability to handle confidential information and intellectual property with discretion.
  
  
  

Required Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering, Engineering Management, Business, Finance, Construction, or related field.
  
  
  

Preferred Education:

• Master’s degree in a related discipline.
  
  
  

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