Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Core Competiencies
Timeline
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Ivan Chernega

Ivan Chernega

Jeddah

Summary

Experienced and driven Entertainment Operations Manager with over a decade in the cruise and live event industries, specializing in end-to-end management of entertainment programs, guest engagement strategy, and cross-departmental coordination. Adept at leading large, diverse teams and overseeing the execution of multi-venue productions, ensuring brand consistency, high satisfaction ratings, and operational excellence. Known for launching fleet-leading entertainment programs, developing strong internal leadership, and driving innovation in cruise ship entertainment.

Overview

9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Entertainment Operations Manager

Aroya Cruises
Jeddah
11.2024 - Current
  • Spearheaded the launch of Aroya Cruises' inaugural entertainment program, overseeing a $1M+ production budget.
  • Managed all shipboard entertainment operations, including cast, technical crew, guest entertainers, and multimedia.
  • Directed daily scheduling, rehearsals, and performance execution across multiple venues including main theater, lounges, and outdoor events.
  • Collaborated with hotel and shore teams to integrate entertainment into the overall guest experience.
  • Introduced brand-aligned programming, including four original productions (circus, musical, gala, and VIP dinner show).
  • Developed training procedures and performance evaluations for a team of over 100 professionals.
  • Ensured full compliance with safety protocols, marine regulations, and company brand standards.
  • Motivated and evaluated personnel for performance improvement and goal achievement.
  • Produced SOPs to document workplace procedures and optimize productivity through standardization.

Lead Project Manager | Event Producer

Freelancer
Odessa, Phuket
11.2022 - 11.2023
  • Produced high-end live events including Phuket Summer Fashion Week 2024.
  • Managed full event logistics, vendor coordination, talent management, and technical execution.
  • Collaborated with luxury hotels and international brands to deliver premium guest experiences.

Entertainment Manager

Norwegian Cruise Line
Miami
01.2022 - 10.2023
  • Led entertainment operations on board multiple NCL vessels, achieving the #1 Fleet Entertainment Rating.
  • Oversaw all aspects of daily programming, scheduling, cast logistics, and entertainment staff supervision.
  • Delivered consistent and engaging programming across theaters, pool decks, lounges, and themed parties.
  • Served as the primary liaison between creative teams and onboard operations.
  • Conducted regular meetings with production teams, performers, and technical staff to maintain show quality and team communication.
  • Supported onboarding of new team members and coordinated logistics for visiting entertainers and vendors.

AV & Production Operations Manager

Celebrity Cruises
Fleetwide
12.2015 - 02.2020
  • Managed audiovisual support for theater shows, special events, and presentations fleet-wide.
  • Coordinated technical setups, show calling, and cueing across main and secondary venues.
  • Ensured optimal equipment functionality and collaborated closely with entertainment, hotel, and marine departments.

Education

Master of Science - Project Management

National Humanitarian University
Odessa, Ukraine
05-2014

Master of Science - Restaurant & Hotel Management

I.I. Mechnikov National Academy
Odessa, Ukraine
05-2012

Skills

  • Entertainment Operations
  • Cruise Ship Management
  • Live Production Oversight
  • Team Leadership
  • Guest Experience Design
  • Project management
  • Event coordination
  • Problem solving
  • Effective communication
  • Talent management

Certification

  • STCW-95 & Crowd Management Certification
  • Stage Automation & Rigging Specialist – EAE Corp., Germany
  • Live Aerial Operator Certification – Chicago FlyHouse
  • Advanced Aerial Systems Training – Chicago FlyHouse

Core Competiencies

  • Entertainment Program Strategy & Execution
  • Cruise Line Guest Engagement Leadership
  • Team Training & Multi-Department Management
  • Production Planning & Logistics
  • Daily Scheduling & Onboard Programming
  • Talent & Crew Leadership (40–100+ Staff)
  • Budget Oversight & Inventory Control
  • Event Execution & Thematic Development
  • Safety Compliance & Operational Standards

Timeline

Entertainment Operations Manager

Aroya Cruises
11.2024 - Current

Lead Project Manager | Event Producer

Freelancer
11.2022 - 11.2023

Entertainment Manager

Norwegian Cruise Line
01.2022 - 10.2023

AV & Production Operations Manager

Celebrity Cruises
12.2015 - 02.2020

Master of Science - Project Management

National Humanitarian University

Master of Science - Restaurant & Hotel Management

I.I. Mechnikov National Academy

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Ivan Chernega