Retail Assistant Manager- French speaking

About Us

Harding is leading the way in innovative onboard cruise retail, partnering with world-class cruise lines and premium global brands to make every cruise better.

Recognised as Cruise Retailer of the Year in 2022, 2023 and 2025, we operate in a truly global environment where retail excellence and memorable guest experiences go hand in hand.

The Opportunity

Life as an Assistant Retail Manager at sea is immersive, rewarding and unlike any other retail role.

Living and working onboard for up to six months at a time, you will support the Retail Manager in leading an international team, creating an environment where colleagues feel motivated, guests feel welcomed and commercial results follow.

You will play a vital role in the day-to‑day success of the business, helping to deliver operational excellence while ensuring every guest interaction reflects the highest standards of service.

This is a highly visible leadership position where no two days are the same. One moment you could be coaching team members on selling techniques, the next hosting an in‑store event, showcasing premium products or working alongside brand and cruise line partners to enhance the guest experience. Working onboard with French speaking guests and team being fluent in French is a must!

Unlike traditional retail environments, you will be engaging with guests who are relaxed, curious and ready to enjoy their holiday. This creates a unique retail atmosphere where storytelling, relationship building and exceptional service drive both guest satisfaction and sales performance.

Working across a range of product categories, from gifts, confectionery and duty‑free products through to luxury jewellery and premium watches, you will gain exposure to a truly multi‑department retail operation while developing your leadership skills in a global setting.

Beyond the role itself, you will have the opportunity to travel the world while building your career. With accommodation, meals and day‑to‑day living expenses covered, you can focus on developing professionally while maximising your earning potential.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Supporting the Retail Manager in leading, motivating and developing a high‑performing retail team
• Creating exceptional and memorable shopping experiences for guests onboard
• Driving sales performance and helping deliver departmental targets and profitability
• Leading by example and acting as a visible role model for service, standards and sales excellence
• Coaching and developing team members through regular feedback and on‑the‑job training
• Building strong relationships with guests and developing a loyal client base
• Promoting and hosting events, product showcases and premium selling experiences
• Maintaining the highest standards across both the shop floor and back‑office operations
• Supporting operational processes including stock control, audits, reporting and loss prevention
• Working collaboratively with onboard stakeholders, cruise line partners and brand representatives

Who You Are

You are an experienced retail leader who enjoys developing people, creating positive team cultures and delivering outstanding customer experiences.

You may currently be an Assistant Store Manager, Assistant Retail Manager, Department Manager or Team Leader looking for a broader leadership opportunity and a more exciting retail environment.

You bring:

• Experience in a retail leadership role, ideally within a multi‑department or premium retail environment
• A track record of motivating teams to achieve and exceed sales targets
• Strong coaching, communication and people leadership skills
• Confidence engaging customers face‑to‑face and delivering exceptional service experiences
• The ability to influence and inspire others through positive leadership and example
• Commercial awareness and experience supporting operational retail processes
• Resilience, adaptability and the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced environment
• Confidence presenting products and engaging audiences during events and product demonstrations
• Strong organisational, numeracy and administrative skills
• Fluent in French!!
• Experience working at sea is advantageous but not essential.

What You’ll Receive

• Competitive salary and generous commission structure
• Accommodation and all meals provided onboard
• The opportunity to save a significant proportion of your earnings while working at sea
• All support, visas and seafaring documentation required to work onboard
• Industry‑leading training across sales, products, brands and leadership development
• Ongoing coaching and support from both the onboard Retail Manager and shore‑based leadership teams
• Career progression opportunities within a growing global retail business
• The chance to travel the world while building your leadership career

Ready for your next adventure?