Two men stand in a warehouse among shelves and boxes; one in a dark jacket listens whilst the other, wearing an orange safety vest, points to a sheet of paper they are both reviewing. Two men stand in a warehouse; one wears a green shirt and name badge, the other a bright orange safety vest. They review paperwork together near shelves of goods and stacked cardboard boxes.

F&B Inventory team

From storekeepers to inventory managers, our inventory team keeps the ship running smoothly behind the scenes. You’ll receive, rotate and audit stock, manage temperature‑controlled stores and work closely with bars, restaurants and galleys to meet demand across the ship.

Because accuracy matters at sea, you’ll also help plan stock levels, coordinate deliveries and maintain high standards of hygiene, safety and compliance. As a result, the right products arrive in the right place, at the right time, supporting brilliant guest experiences and efficient operations.

Whether you’re picking and packing or leading long‑term supply strategy, you’ll play a vital role in delivering holidays like never before.

Inventory roles
A man wearing an orange safety vest holds and reviews a sheet of paper in a warehouse filled with stacked boxes and various supplies.
Assistant Inventory Manager managing food and beverage inventory on board a P&O Cruises ship. The image shows stock control, supply chain management and warehouse operations in a cruise ship storeroom, showcasing logistics and inventory careers at sea
Crew member in dark clothing standing among stacked pallets, bottled goods, and bulk supplies in a large storage area.
Storekeeper in a green uniform handling or moving boxes in a warehouse-style storeroom with labelled cartons and shelving units.

Inventory Manager

As an inventory manager, you’ll lead the onboard inventory operation with confidence and clarity. You’ll own planning, logistics and team performance, while ensuring stock is accurate, available and aligned to guest needs.

At the same time, you’ll drive efficiency, compliance and long‑term supply strategy using KPIs, audits and strong operational oversight to control costs and maintain budget expectations.

A man wearing an orange safety vest holds and reviews a sheet of paper in a warehouse filled with stacked boxes and various supplies.

Assistant Inventory Manager

As assistant inventory manager, you’ll support smooth, efficient stores operations across the ship. You’ll manage stock levels, supervise small teams and help deliver timely, accurate inventory to every department.

In addition, you’ll uphold hygiene, safety and budget standards while developing your leadership skills and operational knowledge.

Assistant Inventory Manager managing food and beverage inventory on board a P&O Cruises ship. The image shows stock control, supply chain management and warehouse operations in a cruise ship storeroom, showcasing logistics and inventory careers at sea

Senior Storekeeper

As senior storekeeper, you’ll lead daily stores operations with care and precision. You’ll manage deliveries, oversee stock rotation and guide the team, ensuring departments receive the right products, on time.

You’ll also maintain excellent hygiene and inventory standards, supporting accuracy across all stores areas.

Crew member in dark clothing standing among stacked pallets, bottled goods, and bulk supplies in a large storage area.

Storekeeper

As a storekeeper, you’ll support smooth stores operations with accuracy and care. You’ll pick, pack and deliver stock, maintain hygiene standards and help keep inventory records spot on.

Because timing matters, your work ensures every department has what it needs, when it needs it.

Storekeeper in a green uniform handling or moving boxes in a warehouse-style storeroom with labelled cartons and shelving units.
How to apply
Skills & qualifications
Inventory team roles
Development opportunities
Working on board

Do I need cruise ship experience?

No. Relevant warehouse, logistics or inventory experience is valued.

Is a food safety qualification required?

Yes. Most roles need a Level 2 Food Safety Award or equivalent.

What IT skills are needed?

You’ll use inventory systems, spreadsheets and reporting tools regularly.

 

Is heavy lifting part of the role?

Yes. Manual handling is involved, with training provided.

Do I need strong English skills?

Yes. Clear communication is essential for safety and teamwork

Are KPIs used in inventory roles?

Yes. Senior roles use KPIs to track accuracy, waste and efficiency.

What areas does Inventory look after?

Dry, chilled and freezer stores, chemicals, uniforms, hotel and bonded stores

How is work split day to day?

Between receiving deliveries, issuing stock and stock control activities.

Who do Inventory teams work with?

Bars, restaurants, galleys and ship leadership teams.

Are there leadership opportunities?

Yes. Senior storekeepers and managers lead and develop teams.

Is the work shift‑based?

Yes. Inventory supports operations every day on board.

How big are Inventory teams?

Team size varies by ship. The team usually includes inventory manager, assistant inventory manager, senior storekeeper, storekeeper.

What is the career progression?

Storekeeper → Senior Storekeeper → Assistant Inventory Manager → Inventory Manager

Is training provided on board?

Yes. You’ll receive role‑specific and safety training.

 

Can I move into other departments?

Inventory experience supports progression across hotel operations.

Are leadership skills developed?

Yes. Supervisory roles focus on coaching and performance management.

Is performance reviewed regularly?

Yes. Ongoing feedback supports development and progression.

Can I work on different ships?

Yes. Opportunities may be available across the fleet.

What are the working hours like?

Expect busy, structured days with split shifts and rest periods.

Do crew get days off?

You’ll work daily during your contract, with scheduled rest time.

Is accommodation provided?

Yes. Accommodation and meals are included on board.

What is life like at sea?

Fast‑paced, social and rewarding, with a strong team culture.

Can I go ashore in ports?

Sometimes, depending on workload and ship schedule.

Is the role physically demanding?

Yes, but training and teamwork support safe working

Two men stand in a warehouse, surrounded by boxes and shelves. One man in a green shirt listens whilst the other, in an orange safety vest, points at a document they are both examining. A worker wearing a reflective safety vest handles a white container in a storeroom filled with boxes and other packages.

Got the skills and the spark?

How to apply