About Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Launched in 1982, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a luxury train operated by Belmond, part of LVMH, that celebrates the golden age of European rail travel. Its meticulously restored vintage carriages, distinguished cuisine and attentive service create an exceptional setting for hospitality professionals. Connecting celebrated European destinations, including Paris and Venice, the train brings together teams whose expertise spans culinary arts, onboard service and railway operations. As an employer, it offers a distinctive environment where precision, discretion and cultural sensitivity are central to the guest experience. Working aboard this historic train means contributing to a living travel heritage through exacting standards and thoughtfully personalised service.
The Train Manager leads onboard operations and the guest experience aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in Venice, overseeing railway health and safety compliance, team leadership, service delivery, budgets, and journey operations. The role includes seasonal team recruitment, operational reporting and crisis planning, and implementing Belmond’s quality and sustainability standards.
Role & Responsibilities
- Work closely with the Senior Train & Operations Manager and Deputy General Manager on strategic planning and implementing innovations, including new destinations and services.
- Collaborate with Human Resources to recruit the seasonal onboard team.
- Ensure onboard staff complete all required Belmond and Venice Simplon-Orient-Express training, particularly in compliance, HACCP, and railway health and safety standards.
- Manage staff administration with Human Resources, including preparing the annual departmental payroll budget and controlling monthly forecasts to remain within the approved budget.
- Control onboard sales and collect payments at the end of each journey.
- Participate in monthly profit and loss reviews and implement corrective actions as required.
- Ensure the team consistently performs in accordance with Belmond and Venice Simplon-Orient-Express standards.
- Ensure team members receive role-appropriate training and monitor their performance and well-being.
- Provide each onboard team member and Head of Department with the information needed to meet guest expectations.
- Check that the train has all required health and safety equipment before each journey.
- Ensure the train is loaded with the supplies and equipment required for the journey, in accordance with Venice Simplon-Orient-Express standards.
- Monitor the train timetable while en route and regularly report progress to the operations team; ensure station arrival times are met and contingency plans are implemented promptly if major discrepancies occur.
- Implement Belmond’s Crisis Management and Business Continuity plans as required.
- Welcome guests onboard and maintain consistent guest relations throughout the journey.
- Complete all reporting within 24 hours of the end of each journey.
- Implement quality assurance measures and Belmond KPIs.
- Implement Belmond’s Plastic Free Campaign and sustainability philosophy, working with suppliers and the onboard team to minimize packaging and single-use items.
Qualifications
- Several years of luxury hospitality experience in a management role.
- Strong knowledge of front office, housekeeping, and food and beverage operations, including their day-to-day management and operational requirements.
- Flexibility to work varying hours, including weekends and holidays.
- Excellent self-organization and time management skills.
- Excellent leadership skills.
- Willingness to travel extensively across Europe.
- Fluent English and working proficiency in French or Italian.
- European or Swiss passport.
Skills
Experience
Several years’ experience in luxury hospitality in a management role.
Workplace
The role is situated in Venice, Veneto, Italy.
Benefits
Discovering Belmond program, including complimentary stays at Belmond properties subject to availability; discounted rates on Belmond trains, cruises, and safaris; food and beverage discounts; comprehensive health and life insurance coverage; and unlimited access to learning platforms.
Culture
The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express’s workplace culture is shaped by the heritage of its historic carriages, meticulous attention to detail and the art of personalised hospitality. Its distinctive environment brings together service, culinary and operational expertise, requiring close teamwork and adaptability to deliver an exceptional guest experience aboard a moving luxury train.
About Cerulean
Cerulean is the definitive career portal for the global luxury industry. We match exceptional professionals with exclusive opportunities at the world's most prestigious brands. From haute couture and fine watchmaking to prestige beauty, hospitality, and boutique retail, Cerulean centralises luxury employment to help you find the career for which you were destined.