Search Engine Optimization Manager

Cruise Nation are the UK’s go-to specialist for unforgettable cruise holidays. Since setting sail in 2009, Cruise Nation has helped hundreds of thousands of travellers swap the traditional land‑based holidays for epic adventures at sea. With expert, impartial advice and unbeatable value, they make it easy for customers to build their dream cruise holiday. With over 200 destinations worldwide, Cruise Nation was the pioneer of the now‑popular cruise & stay holiday concept through its Smart Packages, where flights, stay and cruise are all packaged together with exclusive prices you won’t find anywhere else. With these flexible, great‑value deals, the brand is on a mission to become the UK’s most trusted – and most affordable – cruise tour operator for travellers of all ages.

We’re looking for a proactive, hands‑on SEO Manager to drive sustainable organic growth and help future‑prove our strategy in a rapidly evolving search landscape.

The Role

As SEO Manager, you’ll be responsible for leading all aspects of our organic search performance—from on‑site technical health to content strategy and link building. You’ll be the in‑house SEO lead, working closely with content, development, design and commercial teams to ensure SEO is integrated into everything we do.

You’ll need to be an all‑rounder with experience across technical SEO, content optimisation, and analytics. We’re also looking for someone who’s forward‑thinking, who understands how AI‑generated results and Google’s evolving Search Generative Experience (SGE) are reshaping the SEO landscape, and who’s ready to adapt our strategy accordingly.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and execute the SEO strategy across on‑page, off‑page, and technical SEO.
• Conduct regular site audits and manage technical improvements in collaboration with our developers.
• Lead keyword research and content planning to align with demand and business priorities.
• Develop and execute the company’s SEO strategy, including creating high‑quality, keyword‑optimised content from scratch.
• Optimise existing content and guide the creation of new content for improved organic visibility.
• Monitor SEO performance using tools like GA4, GSC, SEMrush/Ahrefs and make data‑driven recommendations.
• Stay ahead of industry trends, particularly around AI SEO and SGE, and adapt our strategy accordingly.
• Track rankings, traffic, and conversion metrics—reporting progress and opportunities to key stakeholders.
• Build and manage relationships with relevant partners for link‑building and digital PR.
• Collaborate with design, UX and commercial teams to improve site structure, speed, and overall user experience.

Skills and Experience

• Proven experience in a dedicated SEO role, ideally in a fast‑paced B2C or eCommerce environment.
• Strong understanding of technical SEO, including site structure, indexing, crawlability and performance.
• Confident using GA4, Google Search Console, and industry‑standard SEO tools.
• Deep knowledge of keyword strategy, SERP trends, and content optimisation.
• Familiarity with the impact of AI‑generated search results and Google SGE—and how to respond to it.
• Analytical and commercially minded—able to balance search performance with business goals.
• Experience collaborating with content creators, developers and designers.
• Experience in the travel or leisure sector is a bonus, but not essential.

What’s in it for you?

• A key role in a digitally ambitious business with huge organic growth potential.
• Full ownership of the SEO strategy—with the freedom to test, optimise and innovate.
• Forward‑facing team that welcomes innovation, AI integration, and evolving best practice.
• Hybrid working and a supportive, collaborative culture.
• Pension scheme and private medical insurance to support your financial and physical wellbeing following a successful probationary period.
• Holiday discounts and travel perks.
• Competitive salary of up to £45,000 depending on experience.