Ponant is expanding its presence in China with a recruitment initiative that will hire professionals for two key positions.

One of the openings is for a local Business Development Manager, who will report directly to the company’s Head of Sales & Marketing.

According to a job listing, the executive will be responsible for identifying and developing new business opportunities within an assigned region in China.

The manager will also be responsible for maintaining and enhancing relationships with existing key accounts by providing sales support and training.

Among other tasks, the new employee will also manage bookings while supporting the sales and marketing departments.

Ponant’s job listing said it is looking for a professional fluent in both English and Mandarin with over three years of experience in either the cruise industry or luxury travel agencies in China.

In addition to a Business Development Manager, Ponant is also hiring a new Reservations and Documentation Executive for its China operations.

The position is responsible for managing FIT and Group bookings, as well as collecting payments and managing guests’ travel documents.

Other duties include supporting the Business Development Manager in its trade partners’ daily communications and assisting in planning and executing sales and marketing initiatives for key accounts.

According to the job listing, applicants are required to speak both English and Mandarin, as well as have two years of experience in China’s cruise industry or luxury travel agencies.

Candidates for both positions are also expected to have a “deep understanding of both Chinese and European business cultures,” the company added.

In related news, Ponant recently announced the acquisition of a majority stake in Aqua Expeditions, an expedition company that operates in South America, Southeast Asia and beyond.

The transaction was backed by Artémis Group, which owns fashion houses through Kering, including Gucci, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga and more.