Head of ISM Compliance & Flag Relations (f/m/d)

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Job ID 2026-0229 Date posted 08/06/2026 City Hamburg State Country Germany Job Type Full-time

Introduction


Carnival Maritime: Where maritime excellence thrives!

We are a proud member of Carnival Corporation, responsible for the maritime operations of AIDA Cruises and Costa Crociere.

Founded in 2015, Carnival Maritime is dedicated to enhancing communication between ship and shore. We are committed to strengthening collaboration and cross-functional coordination with our brands.

Our Hamburg-based team comprises a diverse group of professionals with expertise in Marine and Technical operations, HESS, and Technical Procurement.

Our employees create an open, rich, and vibrant working environment through their varied backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences.

As part of Carnival Corporation, we honour the integrity of every ocean we sail, embedding this commitment in everything we do. Anchored in safety, efficiency, and innovation, we empower our brands to meet the highest standards and deliver unforgettable journeys.


Your Responsibilities

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We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Subject Matter Expert (SME) for ISM Compliance and Flag Relations to join our Fleet Governance team. This pivotal role ensures fleet-wide compliance with ISM standards and flag state regulations, driving operational excellence and safety across all vessels. If you want to join our company in Hamburg and be part of our culture this is your opportunity, we are looking for a suitable candidate to fill the position of Head of ISM Compliance & Flag Relations :

  • Lead ISM Compliance and Flag Relations across the fleet. Act as the primary Subject Matter Expert for flag state-related matters and support the Designated Person Ashore (DPA) in executing regulatory duties                  
  • Develop, implement, and review company procedures in line with ISM and flag requirements. Coordinate with Captains, Staff Captains, and strategic working groups to ensure compliance and readiness
  • Lead the Incident & Investigation Unit, overseeing, reporting and documentation, root cause analysis and corrective actions. Management of incidents, accidents, and near misses
  • Liaise with external bodies (e.g., DNV, RINA, IACS) to maintain regulatory alignment and to strengthen and establish relationships with impact on our business
  • Coordinate relevant activities with Carnival Brands and Carnival Corporation in order to ensure representation of the Group. Proactively maintain good and close relationships with the various local stakeholders’ groups in strategic locations (ports etc) to ensure rapid and fast communication channels, in particular in case of an emergency.
  • Coordinate a proper planification, execution and follow up of the internal and external (RINA, ITCG - Italian Administration, RAAS - Internal Audit Group, authority) ISM Audit; support the DPA in the management of the ISM System

Your Profile

  • Master's or Bachelor's degree in Maritime Studies or a related discipline, or equivalent experience in the maritime industry
  • More than 10 years of professional experience in maritime compliance, fleet operations, or a related maritime function; alternatively, a minimum of 4 years of professional experience within a Carnival Corporation brand
  • At least 1 year of experience as a Designated Person Ashore (DPA) or Deputy Designated Person Ashore (DDPA) is a plus
  • Certified in ISM (DPA & ISM Code MSC-MEPC.7/Circ.6), internal auditing of the Safety Management System (SMS) or flag state regulations is desired
  • Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Experience in office 365, Power BI and investigation methodologies and reporting standards would be an advantage
  • Self-driven and autonomous way of working with ability to thrive in high-pressure environments and respond swiftly during emergencies
  • Business fluent English skills (English is our company’s official language)

        We Offer


        • 30 days of holidays per year 
        • Flexible working hours & the possibility to work from home for up to three days per week, providing a healthy work-life balance and increased convenience
        • The flexibility of working remotely for up to 10 days a year across Europe
        • The opportunity to work with international experts from more than 40 nationalities in a dynamic and vibrant team, fostering a working environment that promotes Speaking Up, Respecting and Protecting, Improving, Communicating, Listening, Learning, and Empowerment. 
        • Cruises at exclusive discounted prices for all employees, and additionally their family & friends (as from 6 months seniority)
        • Exclusive employee benefits and access to corporate perks and offers
        • Employers’ contribution to ProfiTicket for local transport 
        • Diverse learning and development possibilities, enabling you to expand your knowledge and skills in our organization
        • Participation in the company pension scheme (starting in your third-year seniority) 
        • Free use of the pool bicycles for leisurely strolls during your lunch break or weekends
        • A modern headquarters located in the heart of the HafenCity, an innovative urban district that embraces its proximity to the Elbe River

        Interested?


        We are looking forward to receiving your application!


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