About Antara Cruises
Antara Cruises is India’s leading luxury river cruising brand, offering immersive journeys that blend refined hospitality, cultural discovery, and responsible tourism.
Having successfully operated on the Ganges, Bhitarkanika, Antara Cruises is now expanding its footprint with new luxury vessels on the majestic Brahmaputra River in Assam. As we grow into this exciting new region, we are seeking a dynamic and experienced Operations Manager – Assam to lead and strengthen our on-ground operations and deliver seamless, world-class guest experiences.
Role Description
The Operations Manager – Assam will be responsible for managing marine operations and all shore-based operational activities for Antara Cruises’ vessels operating on the Brahmaputra River.
The Operations Manager’s guest-facing responsibility begins once guests disembark from the vessel. The role will take full ownership of land programs, transportation logistics, guide coordination, local vendor management, and overall execution of shore-side experiences to ensure seamless continuity of the guest journey.
The position requires strong local liaison capabilities, hands-on operational control, and close coordination with the Head Office and internal stakeholders. The role is based in Assam and involves regular travel to vessels, ports, vendors, and operational sites.
Key Responsibilities
Marine Operations
Work in close coordination with the nautical crew to ensure sufficient, safe and compliant marine operations.
Ensure vessel compliance with local marine, and safety regulations
Shore & Land Operations
Take full operational charge once guests disembark from the vessel
Manage execution of land programs and shore excursions
Coordinate transportation arrangements and logistics
Oversee guide allocation and ensure smooth program delivery
Handle real-time troubleshooting during land movements
Local Liaison & Vendor Management
Liaise with local authorities, IWAI, tourism bodies, and regional stakeholders
Build and maintain strong vendor partnerships in Assam
Handle urgent procurement requirements locally
Ensure cost-effective and timely operational support
Corporate Coordination
Work closely with Head Office teams (Operations, Finance, HR, Procurement)
Provide regular operational updates and escalate risks proactively
Ensure alignment between Assam operations and corporate standards
Key Qualifications
Professional Experience
Minimum 10 years of operational leadership experience
Background in Luxury 5-star Hospitality OR experience in the Tour and Travel Industry
Strong exposure to logistics management and multi-stakeholder coordination
Experience handling large-scale guest movements or complex itineraries
Leadership & Functional Skills
Strong operational mindset with hands-on execution ability
Excellent vendor and local stakeholder management skills
Practical problem-solving approach under pressure
Personal Attributes
Based in Assam preferred; knowledge of Assamese language will be a strong advantage; however, applications are welcome from across India
Strong communication skills
High cultural sensitivity and understanding of the region
Flexible, resilient, and solution-oriented
Willingness to travel extensively within Assam and spend time at operational sites