Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
LANGUAGE SKILLS
Timeline
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Francesco Pulpo

Francesco Pulpo

Summary

I am a passionate and multilingual entertainment professional with extensive experience in cruise ships and hotel resorts, specializing in managing and delivering dynamic guest programs and public events. Holding a high-degree diploma in languages, I speak and host in six languages, which allows me to connect effectively with diverse international audiences.

I thrive on engaging new challenges and excel in teamwork, creativity, and leadership within entertainment and hospitality settings. Whether coordinating large-scale events, managing multicultural teams, or developing culturally tailored activities, I am dedicated to enhancing guest experiences in the travel and tourism industry.

I am eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to roles focused on entertainment, guest engagement, and event management, contributing positively to any hotel, cruise line, or tourism organization.

Overview

19
19
years of professional experience

Work History

Cruise Director

MSC Cruises
08.2022 - Current

As Cruise Director, responsible for leading the onboard entertainment and guest experience program for thousands of international guests. Oversaw a diverse team of entertainers, hosts, technicians, and activity staff to deliver a dynamic, engaging, and seamless cruise experience. Served as the public face of the ship's entertainment, managing daily programming, live events, and guest communication.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Designed and executed daily entertainment schedules, including shows, themed nights, enrichment programs, and guest activities.
  • Led and motivated a multicultural team of 20–40+ staff across multiple departments.
  • Acted as Master of Ceremonies (MC) for major events, hosting in six languages to engage a diverse international audience.
  • Collaborated with hotel, technical, and shore-side teams to align guest experience strategies.
  • Managed onboard announcements, internal communications, and crisis communication when needed.
  • Ensured compliance with health, safety, and brand standards.
  • Collected and analyzed guest feedback to continuously enhance the entertainment offering.
  • Communicated confidently with guests and crew in multiple languages, fostering inclusivity and connection.

Key Achievements:

  • Increased guest satisfaction scores by X% through innovative programming.
  • Successfully launched new themed events across multiple sailings.
  • Recognized for leadership and ability to inspire high-performing teams.
  • Frequently praised for multilingual hosting and communication, enhancing guest engagement and creating a welcoming atmosphere onboard.

Cruise Activities Manager

MSC Cruises
05.2017 - 10.2021

As Cruise Activities Manager, I led the planning and delivery of diverse daily entertainment programs for international guests across six flagship vessels. I managed and trained a multicultural team, personally hosting events in six languages to maximize guest engagement and satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Developed and coordinated games, theme nights, fitness activities, and social events aligned with brand standards.
  • Acted as lead host and MC, engaging guests and collaborating closely with Cruise Director and hotel teams.
  • Managed guest feedback and ensured high service standards across multiple languages.
  • Supported health & safety protocols, emergency drills, and special event logistics.

Key Achievements:

  • Played a pivotal role in newbuild deliveries, shipyard setups, and inaugural sailings, coordinating with shoreside teams.
  • Recognized for leadership, adaptability, and multilingual hosting during high-pressure launches.
  • Helped shape entertainment programs from Day One, representing the department at key events.

I am eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to entertainment, guest engagement, and event management roles, contributing positively to hotels, cruise lines, or tourism organizations.

Cruise Administrator for Asian Season

MSC Cruises
12.2016 - 04.2017

Appointed as Cruise Administrator for the Asian Season onboard MSC Lirica, acting as the operational lead of the entire entertainment department. Held responsibilities equivalent to a Cruise Director, without hosting duties, due to the presence of a native-speaking Master of Ceremonies.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Led the coordination and administration of the entertainment department during the Asia program.
  • Served as primary liaison with hotel and technical management to align with brand and cultural standards.
  • Managed scheduling, logistics, and execution of all entertainment activities.
  • Supervised teams of animators, performers, technicians, and stage crew to deliver regionally tailored experiences.
  • Developed culturally specific programming for Chinese guests, including the popular Dumpling Cooking Show.
  • Handled departmental administration: reporting, budgeting, staffing, and performance evaluations.
  • Ensured smooth communication between onboard teams and shoreside operations.

Key Achievements:

  • Successfully adapted operations for the Asian market, demonstrating cultural sensitivity and leadership.
  • Created innovative, guest-centric experiences that boosted satisfaction and engagement.
  • Strengthened the brand’s impact in a strategic regional market through tailored programming.
  • Recognized for behind-the-scenes leadership and smooth execution of a complex entertainment operation.

Assistant Cruise Director

MSC Cruises
09.2014 - 10.2016

Supported the Cruise Director in managing and delivering the ship’s entertainment program, ensuring smooth operations and outstanding guest engagement. Balanced administrative tasks with on-stage hosting, regularly acting as MC for major events in six languages.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Helped plan and execute daily entertainment schedules, including games, trivia, parties, and live shows.
  • Acted as lead host and MC, engaging international audiences with energy and inclusivity.
  • Supervised entertainment team members (hosts, DJs, technicians) to maintain high standards.
  • Stepped in as acting Cruise Director when needed, ensuring program continuity and leadership.
  • Managed interdepartmental communication and guest feedback to improve programming.
  • Supported logistics for rehearsals, venue coordination, and special events.

Key Achievements:

  • Recognized for stage presence, adaptability, and multilingual hosting.
  • Frequently chosen to lead flagship events for high visibility and guest impact.
  • Contributed to consistently high guest satisfaction through strong team coordination and creativity.

Chief Entertainer

MSC Cruises
11.2010 - 08.2014

Reported directly to the Cruise Director and managed the day-to-day operations of the entertainment department. Led a multicultural team of entertainers, technicians, and hosts to deliver a seamless, high-quality guest experience tailored to an international audience.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Oversaw daily programs, including live shows, themed events, and guest activities.
  • Managed casting, scheduling, and performance standards.
  • Coordinated with the Cruise Director, Hotel Director, and other departments to ensure smooth operations.
  • Handled technical logistics and ensured compliance with safety and brand standards.
  • Provided leadership and motivation to the team, promoting a professional and collaborative atmosphere.
  • Collected and analyzed guest feedback to improve entertainment offerings.

Key Achievements:

  • Recognized for strong leadership and maintaining high standards in a fast-paced environment.
  • Contributed to the success of innovative shows and special themed events.
  • Played a key role in supporting the Cruise Director during peak operations and celebrations.

Assistant Chief Entertainer

MSC Cruises
05.2010 - 10.2010

Supported the Chief Entertainment in the daily management of the entertainment department, ensuring the smooth delivery of high-quality programming for an international audience. Played a key role in team supervision, coordination, and guest engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assisted in organizing live shows, themed events, games, and guest activities.
  • Supported scheduling, casting, and performance quality control.
  • Facilitated communication between entertainment teams and other departments.
  • Led and motivated staff during daily operations and special events.
  • Helped resolve operational challenges and ensure smooth event execution.
  • Collected guest feedback and contributed ideas to improve programming.
  • Acted as liaison between staff and management for consistent standards.

Key Achievements:

  • Ensured seamless operations during peak periods and special sailings.
  • Boosted guest engagement through proactive coordination and leadership.
  • Recognized for adaptability, teamwork, and strong cross-cultural communication.

Assistant Chief Entertainer

EFFEDI ENTERTAINMENT - I Giardini Di Athena - Resort
05.2009 - 10.2009

Supported the Chief Entertainment in the daily management of the entertainment department, ensuring smooth delivery of high-quality, international guest programming. Played a key role in team coordination, event execution, and guest engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assisted in organizing live shows, theme nights, games, and activities.
  • Supported scheduling, casting, and performance quality control.
  • Facilitated communication between teams and departments.
  • Led and motivated staff during operations and special events.
  • Helped resolve operational issues and ensured smooth logistics.
  • Collected guest feedback and proposed improvements.
  • Acted as liaison between staff and management.

Key Achievements:

  • Delivered seamless operations during peak sailings and events.
  • Enhanced guest engagement through team leadership and coordination.
  • Praised for adaptability, teamwork, and cross-cultural communication.

Assistant Chief Entertainer

MSC Cruises
11.2008 - 05.2009

Supported the Chief Entertainment in the daily management of the entertainment department, ensuring the smooth delivery of high-quality programming for an international audience. Played a key role in team supervision, coordination, and guest engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assisted in organizing live shows, themed events, games, and guest activities.
  • Supported scheduling, casting, and performance quality control.
  • Facilitated communication between entertainment teams and other departments.
  • Led and motivated staff during daily operations and special events.
  • Helped resolve operational challenges and ensure smooth event execution.
  • Collected guest feedback and contributed ideas to improve programming.
  • Acted as liaison between staff and management for consistent standards.

Key Achievements:

  • Ensured seamless operations during peak periods and special sailings.
  • Boosted guest engagement through proactive coordination and leadership.
  • Recognized for adaptability, teamwork, and strong cross-cultural communication.

Assistant Chief Entertainer

EFFEDI ENTERTAINMENT - Porto Selvaggio - Resort
05.2008 - 10.2008

Supported the Chief Entertainment in the daily management of the entertainment department, ensuring smooth delivery of high-quality, international guest programming. Played a key role in team coordination, event execution, and guest engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assisted in organizing live shows, theme nights, games, and activities.
  • Supported scheduling, casting, and performance quality control.
  • Facilitated communication between teams and departments.
  • Led and motivated staff during operations and special events.
  • Helped resolve operational issues and ensured smooth logistics.
  • Collected guest feedback and proposed improvements.
  • Acted as liaison between staff and management.

Key Achievements:

  • Delivered seamless operations during peak sailings and events.
  • Enhanced guest engagement through team leadership and coordination.
  • Praised for adaptability, teamwork, and cross-cultural communication.

Cruise Staff

MSC Cruises
04.2007 - 05.2008

Worked as a key member of the entertainment team, delivering engaging activities and exceptional service to ensure a memorable guest experience onboard.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assisted with daily activities, including games, recreational events, and social programs.
  • Delivered excellent guest service, answering questions and supporting special requests.
  • Supported shows, theme nights, and special events alongside the entertainment team.
  • Ensured a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all guests.
  • Collaborated with other departments to enhance the overall cruise experience.
  • Followed all company policies and maritime safety regulations.

Key Achievements:

  • Praised for enthusiasm, teamwork, and cross-cultural communication.
  • Helped ensure smooth execution of entertainment programming.
  • Built strong problem-solving and interpersonal skills in a fast-paced, international setting.

Entertainment Staff Member

EFFEDI ENTERTAINMENT - Punta Lunga Camping
07.2006 - 10.2006

Contributed to the hotel entertainment team by organizing and leading a variety of activities including acting workshops, dance sessions, sports tournaments, games, live shows, and themed events. Engaged guests of all ages, fostering participation and creating a vibrant, enjoyable atmosphere. Worked closely with other departments to ensure smooth event execution and high guest satisfaction.

Key Achievements:

  • Increased guest involvement and positive feedback through dynamic hosting and interactive activities.
  • Recognized for strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability to diverse guest preferences.
  • Supported the successful delivery of special events and seasonal entertainment

Education

High School Degree - Languages

Liceo Scientifico Statale G.C. Vanini

Skills

  • Guest relations management
  • Public speaking
  • Brand promotion
  • Entertainment programming
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Customer service
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Reliability
  • Excellent communication
  • Event planning
  • Continuous improvement
  • Public relations

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Mother tongue(s): ITALIAN
Other language(s)
ENGLISH: Listening C1, Reading C1, Spoken production B2, Spoken interaction B2, Writing C1
FRENCH: Listening B1, Reading B1, Spoken production B1, Spoken interaction B1, Writing B1
PORTUGUESE: Listening C1, Reading C1, Spoken production C1, Spoken interaction C1, Writing C1
SPANISH: Listening B2, Reading B2, Spoken production B1, Spoken interaction B1, Writing B1
GERMAN: Listening A1, Reading A1, Spoken production A1, Spoken interaction A1, Writing A1
Levels: A1 and A2: Basic user; B1 and B2: Independent user; C1 and C2: Proficient user

Timeline

Cruise Director

MSC Cruises
08.2022 - Current

Cruise Activities Manager

MSC Cruises
05.2017 - 10.2021

Cruise Administrator for Asian Season

MSC Cruises
12.2016 - 04.2017

Assistant Cruise Director

MSC Cruises
09.2014 - 10.2016

Chief Entertainer

MSC Cruises
11.2010 - 08.2014

Assistant Chief Entertainer

MSC Cruises
05.2010 - 10.2010

Assistant Chief Entertainer

EFFEDI ENTERTAINMENT - I Giardini Di Athena - Resort
05.2009 - 10.2009

Assistant Chief Entertainer

MSC Cruises
11.2008 - 05.2009

Assistant Chief Entertainer

EFFEDI ENTERTAINMENT - Porto Selvaggio - Resort
05.2008 - 10.2008

Cruise Staff

MSC Cruises
04.2007 - 05.2008

Entertainment Staff Member

EFFEDI ENTERTAINMENT - Punta Lunga Camping
07.2006 - 10.2006

High School Degree - Languages

Liceo Scientifico Statale G.C. Vanini
Francesco Pulpo