Committed manager with exceptional leadership, organisational skills and communication abilities leads high-performing cross-functional teams. Leads projects, company operations and business growth.
Hi, I’m
Graham Cook
Entertainment Manager
Saltburn By The Sea,North Yorkshire
Summary
Overview
30
years of professional experience
Work History
TheChallenge.org
Assistant Program Leader
08.2012
Job overview
- Company Overview: London
- Work intensively with individual challenging young people as required throughout the Personal and Team Challenge
- Provide floating support to the five teams of young people as required by the Programme Leader
- Support each of the mentors in working with their teams and to give them some time off
- Support the Programme Leader in management of the discipline system where required
- Live residentially during the Personal Challenge and Team Challenge
- London
Viking River Cruises
Program Director
03.2020 - 11.2024
Job overview
- Organisation of embarkation and disembarkation
- Ensuring smooth operation of transfers (transfer / luggage / times)
- Coordination of airport representative and assisting with passenger travels
- Handling / filing of cruise, land (if applicable) reports & daily program
- Organising and presenting guest entertainment (games / lectures / presentations) according to the cruise layout & active guest relation
- Responsible for all public announcements (including bridge commentary)
- Facilitating and assisting guests with onboard cruise bookings
- Receipt and handling of guest complaints & private guest excursions
- Coordination of all excursions including audio equipment
- Liaising with local suppliers (reconfirmation of reservations, busses, guides…)
- Instructing and briefing local guides prior to shore-excursion
- Accompanying of all excursions and walks (with or without local guides)
- Controlling and monitoring of implementation and quality of the excursions
Saga Cruises (Temporary between contracts)
Cruise Director
01.2023 - 01.2024
Job overview
- Company Overview: Worldwide
- Report to the Hotel General Manager
- Responsible for guiding his/her team to develop activity programming sensitive to guest demographics and itinerary fluctuations
- Be highly visible to guests by- hosting and acts as Master of Ceremonies at special events, theme parties and functions such as Captain's Cocktail Party, Guest's Talent Show, Welcome Aboard Show in the absence of the Entertainment Manager
- Make announcements on the Public Address System
- Monitor and evaluates guest comments and creates plans for improvements
- Participate in Operation Team Meetings and be involved in Ships Action Plan / Hotel Action Plan
- Ensures that guest entertainment and activities are carefully integrated with all product offerings aboard the ship liasing with revenue partners to ensure revenue opportunities maximised
- Coach and rehearse performance with department staff to ensure that cruise line standards are being met
- Responsible for the training and counselling of all the middle managers under his/her supervision
- Conduct disciplinary investigations and hearings when required
- Monitor staff performance, appraise staff including setting objectives and performance improvement plans
- Worldwide
- Please note this was a temporary job in between contracts for Viking River Cruises
Saga Cruises (Temporary during Covid)
Assistant Cruise Director
06.2021 - 09.2021
Job overview
- Company Overview: Worldwide
- Report to the Entertainment Manager
- Responsible for guiding his/her team to develop activity programming sensitive to guest demographics and itinerary fluctuations
- Host and acts as Master of Ceremonies at special events, theme parties and functions such as Captain's Cocktail Party, Guest's Talent Show, Welcome Aboard Show in the absence of the Entertainment Manager
- Make announcements on the Public Address System
- Monitor and evaluates guest comments and creates plans for improvements
- Conduct regular meetings with the other heads of departments to review policies, discuss opportunities and coordinate solutions
- Ensures that guest entertainment and activities are carefully integrated with all product offerings aboard the ship
- Coach and rehearse performance with department staff to ensure that cruise line standards are being met
- Responsible for the training and counselling of all the staff under his/her supervision
- Conduct disciplinary investigations when required
- Monitor staff performance, appraise staff including setting objectives and performance improvement plans
- Worldwide
- Please note this was a temporary job during Covid
Mobile Covid Testing Unit (Temporary during Covid)
Multi Skilled Operative
01.2021 - 06.2021
Job overview
- Checking in / Checking Out of Customers using App
- Explaining Self Test Procedure to Customers
- Directing Traffic
- Following PPE and Cleaning Protocols
- Setting up Mobile Unit in different locations each day
- Inventory check / ordering
- Please note this was a temporary job during Covid
P & O Cruises Carnival UK
Entertainment Manager
07.2016 - 02.2020
Job overview
- Company Overview: Worldwide
- Report to the Hotel General Manager
- Responsible for guiding his/her team to develop activity programming sensitive to guest demographics and itinerary fluctuations
- Be highly visible to guests by- hosting and acts as Master of Ceremonies at special events, theme parties and functions such as Captain's Cocktail Party, Guest's Talent Show, Welcome Aboard Show in the absence of the Entertainment Manager
- Make announcements on the Public Address System
- Monitor and evaluates guest comments and creates plans for improvements
- Participate in Operation Team Meetings and be involved in Ships Action Plan / Hotel Action Plan
- Ensures that guest entertainment and activities are carefully integrated with all product offerings aboard the ship liasing with revenue partners to ensure revenue opportunities maximised
- Coach and rehearse performance with department staff to ensure that cruise line standards are being met
- Responsible for the training and counselling of all the middle managers under his/her supervision
- Conduct disciplinary investigations and hearings when required
- Monitor staff performance, appraise staff including setting objectives and performance improvement plans
- Worldwide
P & O Cruises Carnival UK
Assistant Entertainment Manager/ Deputy Cruise Director
06.2014 - 07.2016
Job overview
- Company Overview: Worldwide
- Report to the Entertainment Manager
- Responsible for guiding his/her team to develop activity programming sensitive to guest demographics and itinerary fluctuations
- Host and acts as Master of Ceremonies at special events, theme parties and functions such as Captain's Cocktail Party, Guest's Talent Show, Welcome Aboard Show in the absence of the Entertainment Manager
- Make announcements on the Public Address System
- Monitor and evaluates guest comments and creates plans for improvements
- Conduct regular meetings with the other heads of departments to review policies, discuss opportunities and coordinate solutions
- Ensures that guest entertainment and activities are carefully integrated with all product offerings aboard the ship
- Coach and rehearse performance with department staff to ensure that cruise line standards are being met
- Responsible for the training and counselling of all the staff under his/her supervision
- Conduct disciplinary investigations when required
- Monitor staff performance, appraise staff including setting objectives and performance improvement plans
- Worldwide
P & O Cruises Carnival UK
Assistant Cruise Director
08.2012 - 06.2014
Job overview
- Company Overview: Worldwide
- Oversee the preparation of the daily newsletter, including proof reading entire document to ensure accuracy and proper spelling and grammar
- Pro-active approach to problem solving
- Should be able to take over for the Deputy Cruise Director in case if illness/emergency or other situations that may arise that might take the DCD out of normal operation
- In charge of scheduling In-Port Manning, as well as input of information into Ships System
- Scheduling of Cruise Staff
- Host daily activities, as well as evening ones (such as game shows, Karaoke, Discos, etc.)
- Assist with embarkation and disembarkation
- Interact with guests to ensure the best possible cruising experience
- Serve as on board DJ if qualified
- Ensure that all guest requests, inquiries and complaints are responded to immediately
- Socialize with guests whenever possible
- Worldwide
P & O Cruises Carnival UK
Entertainment Officer
12.2009 - 08.2012
Job overview
- Company Overview: Worldwide
- Hosting game shows, quizzes, outdoor activities
- Comparing events
- Safety duties - Ist/2nd in charge of Muster Station
- Run day to day Entertainment Program
- Worldwide
Ocean Village Cruises, Carnival UK
Youth Staff
07.2009 - 11.2009
Job overview
- Company Overview: Worldwide
- Organize and lead youth activities, ages 2-17 years, in designated activity centres, assigned areas and throughout the vessel
- Determine the activities to initiate based on the ages and the needs of the children assigned to participate in the scheduled activity
- Participate in embarkation procedures, directs and escorts guests to their staterooms
- Direct children in eating, resting, and toileting
- Intervene when a conflict arises or when a child needs extra attention or assistance in order to enjoy the activities
- Communicate with parents in a tactful and courteous manner to generate a high level of comfort
- Assist the Youth Director in planning, organizing and implementing entertaining and educational programs for all ages between 2 and 17
- Serves meals and refreshments to children and regulates rest periods
- Act as a role model for the youth with regard to leadership, friendliness, diplomacy, honesty, fair play, sportsmanship and open-mindedness
- Worldwide
Ryehills School
Cover Supervisor
01.2009 - 07.2009
Job overview
- Company Overview: Redcar and Cleveland
- Provide cover for morning registration
- Deliver lessons where the normal cover has been left, to a high standard with limited preparation time and on occasion at short notice
- Manage the behaviour of students effectively, putting an end to any unacceptable behaviour before it escalates
- Provide students with a positive learning environment so as to aid student progress
- Deal with any issues, whether behavioural or otherwise, in the appropriate manner
- Redcar and Cleveland
Gambado
Entertainment Manager
06.2008 - 11.2008
Job overview
- Company Overview: London
- Open and close business
- Prepare floats / cash up, order change
- Order stock
- Organise staff rota
- Recruitment
- Staff training
- Health and safety, maintenance of play frames rides
- Plan Entertainment program (Children’s parties and special events)
- Duty manager
- London
P & O Cruises Carnival UK
Youth Director
08.2003 - 06.2008
Job overview
- Company Overview: Worldwide
- Report to the Cruise Director and supervises, coordinates and evaluates the performance of all (2 to 11) Youth Counsellors / Youth Staff
- Responsible for planning, organizing, directing and implementing all youth and teen programs (ages 2-17) aboard the ship
- Act as liaison between Youth Counsellors, Cruise Director and parents using tact and courtesy in order to generate a high level of comfort for the parents
- Maintain an inventory of all games and prizes for the Youth Program
- Responsible for leading any of the youth/teen activities, ensuring that each event takes place safely and promptly as scheduled
- Constantly uses discretion and good judgment in relationships with children and exhibits proper behaviour
- Assist in all necessary for the implementation of youth and teen programming projects including other entertainment related functions, activities and events
- Host events
- Handles behaviour and discipline problems with children and/or parents within his/her training ability
- Be accessible and approachable with the guests and capable of being a patient listener
- Worldwide
P & O Cruises Carnival UK
Youth Staff
07.1999 - 08.2003
Job overview
- Company Overview: Worldwide
- Organize and lead youth activities, ages 2-17 years, in designated activity centres, assigned areas and throughout the vessel
- Determine the activities to initiate based on the ages and the needs of the children assigned to participate in the scheduled activity
- Participate in embarkation procedures, directs and escorts guests to their staterooms
- Direct children in eating, resting, and toileting
- Intervene when a conflict arises or when a child needs extra attention or assistance in order to enjoy the activities
- Communicate with parents in a tactful and courteous manner to generate a high level of comfort
- Assist the Youth Director in planning, organizing and implementing entertaining and educational programs for all ages between 2 and 17
- Serves meals and refreshments to children and regulates rest periods
- Act as a role model for the youth with regard to leadership, friendliness, diplomacy, honesty, fair play, sportsmanship and open-mindedness
- Worldwide
Prime Leisure Activity Holidays
Site Leader
02.1997 - 02.1999
Job overview
- Company Overview: Oxford
- Manage, direct and support staff to ensure they adhere to processes and procedures whilst the children in the care of Super Camps continually have a fun, stimulating and safe time
- Ensure that quality programmes across the brands are planned and delivered with structure and enthusiasm by staff at all times
- Liaise with parents in person and by phone with regard to the children's needs and feedback on any issues which arise
- Continually show respect for your Host Venue by managing your staff team and ensuring cleanliness and safety at all times
- Liaise with Head Office, your Divisional Manager and Host Venue representatives with updates and queries
- Prepare and lead your Camp Specific Training and Set Up day (prior training offered) ensuring your camp, equipment and staff are ready for the first day of camp
- Manage daily administration including sign in/out of children, grouping of children into groups, timetabling and allocation of staff to timetabled activities plus other adhoc duties as required
- Effectively deal with the often unpredictable challenges within the childcare industry
- Ensure staff deliver a structured and enjoyable activity for the children period during drop off and pick up times
- Oxford
Prime Leisure Activity Holidays
Activity Instructor
02.1995 - 02.1997
Job overview
- Company Overview: Oxford
- Adhere to processes and procedures whilst the children in your care continually have a fun, stimulating and safe time
- Plan and deliver a variety of activities with structure and enthusiasm and encourage maximum participation of the children in the group
- Manage the exchange of all relevant information regarding children in your care to the Camp Manager
- Deliver a structured and enjoyable activity for the children period during drop off and pick up times
- Actively supervise the children during breaks and lunch times
- Additional duties will include registering crews, cleaning and kit maintenance etc
- Oxford
Education
University of WolverhamptonWolverhampton
Bachelor of Arts from History With Sports Studies
06.1999
University Overview
Skills
- Calm under pressure
- Problem-solving
- Communication skills
- Public speaking
- Team building
- Leadership
- Resourcefulness
- Public Relations
- Inventory management
Timeline
Cruise Director
Saga Cruises (Temporary between contracts)
01.2023 - 01.2024
Assistant Cruise Director
Saga Cruises (Temporary during Covid)
06.2021 - 09.2021
Multi Skilled Operative
Mobile Covid Testing Unit (Temporary during Covid)
01.2021 - 06.2021
Program Director
Viking River Cruises
03.2020 - 11.2024
Entertainment Manager
P & O Cruises Carnival UK
07.2016 - 02.2020
Assistant Entertainment Manager/ Deputy Cruise Director
P & O Cruises Carnival UK
06.2014 - 07.2016
Assistant Program Leader
TheChallenge.org
08.2012
Assistant Cruise Director
P & O Cruises Carnival UK
08.2012 - 06.2014
Entertainment Officer
P & O Cruises Carnival UK
12.2009 - 08.2012
Youth Staff
Ocean Village Cruises, Carnival UK
07.2009 - 11.2009
Cover Supervisor
Ryehills School
01.2009 - 07.2009
Entertainment Manager
Gambado
06.2008 - 11.2008
Youth Director
P & O Cruises Carnival UK
08.2003 - 06.2008
Youth Staff
P & O Cruises Carnival UK
07.1999 - 08.2003
Site Leader
Prime Leisure Activity Holidays
02.1997 - 02.1999
Activity Instructor
Prime Leisure Activity Holidays
02.1995 - 02.1997
University of Wolverhampton
Bachelor of Arts from History With Sports Studies
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