INDIA - General Manager

Viking, a travel brand founded in 1997 that designs river, ocean and lake itineraries for inquisitive guests, is creating a new presence in India. The Managing Director India will head the launch of a Guwahati office and supervise the introduction of two Brahmaputra‑river vessels, the first of which is slated for the autumn of 2027 and the second by 2028. The incumbent will build the local office from the ground up, installing the procedures required for regulatory compliance, safety, finance and human‑resources functions. Early duties involve directing the end‑to‑end project schedule, budgeting, risk tracking and the creation of a reliable supplier network, while also drafting and rolling out standard operating procedures in partnership with corporate teams. Once the ships are sailing, the role shifts to overseeing finance, HR, procurement and compliance staff, maintaining alignment with Viking’s global standards through audits, and coordinating with Basel headquarters, local authorities, partners and auditors. Regular progress reports to senior leadership and proactive issue escalation are also expected. The posting does not specify particular qualifications, experience, language abilities or certifications, so no mandatory prerequisites are listed. Based in Guwahati, the position requires occasional travel within India to visit vessels, suppliers and operational sites, and infrequent trips to the Basel head office for strategic alignment. Reporting directly to the SVP of Passenger Operations River, the role sits within Viking River Cruises’ Corporate Operations team, offering the chance to shape a brand‑new market and work closely with an international executive group.