Job Summary:

As a Talent Manager, you will have an opportunity to immerse yourself in National Geographic Expeditions and how we tap into National Geographic Society’s on-trip staffing resources so we can round out our unique expeditions. Responsibilities will include: prospecting and organizing data for our pool of on-trip talent, working with internal, functional and National Geographic partners; managing talent and modifying performance, acting as project leader, developing and delivering standard operating procedure documentation and training for talent, experiencing and assisting in Expeditions’ participation in Explorers Festival so we stay connected to the National Geographic mission.

You will report to the Sr. Manager Operations - Adventure Guides, Talent & Trip Services

Responsibilities:

Talent Prospecting & Performance Management

• Prospect high-quality NG Experts whose area of expertise aligns with the assignment, so travelers’ experience is enriched

• Identify and prepare ad-hoc talent requests such as NG Hosts for Private Jet trips, NG Ambassadors on Expedition Cruises, and Guest Speakers, as needed

• Communicate with Talent to ensure they are well-prepared and set-up for success

• Ensure they have the resources they need to be successful in their role, set expectations, confirm talks are aligned with National Geographic Society mission and trip itinerary

• Coach Talent for on-trip lectures, confirming their talks are aligned with National Geographic Society mission and trip itinerary

• Provide Experts with post-trip evaluation feedback, recommendations for improvement, and development resources, as needed

• Act as point of contact for Talent if guidance is needed for non-trip related topics

• Be a mentor and perform feedback calls with Talent, as needed

• Audit and mentor Talent in destination, as needed

Talent Training

• Design and facilitate talent’s standard operating procedures and training resources to ensure preparedness and consistent performance

• Manage Talent Team portal (documentation repository), such as up-to-date information on National Geographic Society’s and National Geographic Partners’ activities and priorities, training resources, talent’s responsibilities, and trip-specific expectations

• Partner with Trip Ops Managers to ensure Talent standard operating procedures are understood and being reinforced by this team

Talent Requests & Scheduling

• Manage scheduling of NG Talent, and assign NG Talent to departures requiring Experts or Photography Experts

• Keep Talent information current on spreadsheets and databases (NGE and NG Partners) used to track expert assignments, geographies, and skills

• Initiate and manage Talent background checks and statements of work (contracts)

Talent Admin

• Proactively identify and manage emerging issues and mitigating impacts

• Generate timely post-trip guest evaluation reports on Talent to assist with performance management

• Analyze Talent performance in a weekly basis and provide action plan

• Consult with, provide timely communication plans, and influence business partners

• Actively participate in business and department meetings, check-ins and one-on-ones

• Work both independently and in a collaborative team environment

• Meet project deadlines and deliverables

Talent Marketing

• Be the point of contact for Sales, Marketing, and Public Relations efforts

• Review provide creative input for Talent-related marketing assets such as catalogs copy, Expert biographies, and emails templates

• Support NGE marketing team and NG editorial team efforts by keeping Talent listings current on the website and acquiring media (including field photos, interviews, video) from Talent who are willing

Basic Qualifications:

• Exceptional interpersonal skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications

• Minimum 2 years of talent development or operations experience

• Ability to identify issues and problem solve without supervision

• Ability to address conflict and provide feedback professionally

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Accuracy and attention to detail are essential

• Wanderlust and ability to travel with short notice

Preferred Qualifications:

• Minimum 2 years leadership experience

• Minimum 2 years of talent acquisition

• Instructional design background

• Knowledge of guided tour industry

• Project management skills

Required Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

About NatGeo Expeditions:

About The Walt Disney Company:

The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise with the following business segments: media networks, parks and resorts, studio entertainment, consumer products and interactive media. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.

This position is with ABD, LLC, which is part of a business we call NatGeo Expeditions.

ABD, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Disney fosters a business culture where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a rapidly changing world.