Talent Manager

About the Role

Building upon a heritage spanning over 138 years, National Geographic Explorers have traversed continents, remote cultures, ocean depths, and towering mountains. National Geographic Expeditions continues this tradition by offering travelers firsthand experiences of the world's wonders, whether through Expedition Cruises or Private Jet journeys. Every expedition supports the National Geographic Society’s global nonprofit mission, aiding explorers in research, education, and conservation.

As a Talent Manager, you will scout, recruit, and manage Disney and National Geographic Explorers, experts, photographers, and filmmakers worldwide. Your duties include talent prospecting, scheduling, briefing, lecture program coordination, and post-trip follow-up, alongside administrative and marketing responsibilities associated with the talent function. This position operates on-site in Celebration, Florida, with remote work options, and reports to the Manager of Talent and Quality Assurance.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with National Geographic Society to identify outstanding talent whose expertise elevates the guest experience across National Geographic Expeditions and fulfill ad hoc requests for ambassadors and guest speakers.
• Establish and nurture strong relationships with talent through ongoing communication, updates on Adventures by Disney and National Geographic Expeditions developments, and invitations for in-person team engagements.
• Assign talent to Expedition Cruise and Private Jet travel experiences, facilitating comprehensive pre-trip preparations and post-trip debriefs with operations teams.
• Coordinate with Contingent Workforce Management and legal departments to ensure all talent-related documentation, such as background checks and contracts, are complete and compliant.
• Collaborate internally to understand talent needs, define role requirements, and align talent to specific departures.
• Conduct thorough interviews and assessments to evaluate new talent’s ability to deliver engaging presentations to expedition guests.
• Serve as a subject matter expert for Marketing and Public Relations regarding talent assets, including catalogs, biographies, and communications.
• Maintain up-to-date talent listings on websites, including photos, interviews, and videos.
• Manage talent-related issues such as last-minute cancellations or on-trip emergencies, ensuring timely resolutions with appropriate stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

• At least 3 years of experience in talent development or management.
• Capability to independently identify challenges, resolve issues, and handle conflicts effectively.
• Proven ability as a self-initiated professional thriving in fast-paced, dynamic environments with multiple partners.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills tailored for interactions with vendors, clients, and talent.
• Strong planning and project management competencies.
• Effectiveness in managing multiple high-priority projects concurrently, meeting deadlines, and delivering results promptly.
• Experience coordinating complex logistics alongside robust implementation skills.
• Willingness to travel occasionally as required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with SmartSheet and Quickbase software platforms.
• Experience managing budgets and third-party legal contracts.
• Minimum of 3 years in the domestic and international travel industry.
• Understanding of travel industry talent and hiring processes including contracts and background checks.
• Knowledge of Adventures by Disney and National Geographic Expeditions programs.
• Experience overseeing high-profile corporate events and immersive brand experiences, including event logistics, vendor negotiations, and third-party collaborations.

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience is required.

Additional Information

Disney offers a comprehensive rewards package comprising health and savings benefits, educational opportunities, and unique perks exclusive to Disney employees.

The salary range for this job is $68,600 to $91,900 annually. The actual salary offered will reflect factors such as geographic location, job-related expertise, knowledge, skills, and experience. Eligible employees may also receive bonuses and/or long-term incentive units in addition to full medical, financial, and other benefits aligned with the position’s level.