Candi Finkelstein
Candi Whaley is a visionary leader in the cruise and travel industry with over two decades of experience creating unforgettable guest experiences. Currently serving as the Manager of Enrichment and Entertainment at Viking, she leads with passion and precision, designing engaging onboard programs that align with Viking’s mission of cultural exploration and excellence. Her leadership is marked by a deep understanding of hospitality, operations, and customer engagement, honed through years of dedicated service in roles ranging from Cruise Director to Program Director across top-tier cruise lines.
Candi’s background spans a wide range of expertise, including financial management, contract negotiation, product development, and destination storytelling. Her ability to blend operational excellence with guest-centric innovation has consistently driven revenue growth and elevated customer satisfaction. Her dynamic approach has earned her recognition not just as a manager, but as a true entertainer and cultural ambassador at sea.
Throughout her career, Candi has built and led high-performing teams, trained future industry leaders, and helped shape the modern cruise experience into something more than a vacation—it’s a journey. Her reputation for professionalism, creativity, and genuine care for both guests and colleagues continues to make her an invaluable asset in the travel and tourism sector.
• Damelin
• Travel association
• American Council of Exercise
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to staying kind, genuine, and grounded—values that have guided me throughout my 25-year journey in the cruise industry, from my beginnings in South Africa to becoming Manager of Enrichment and Entertainment for Viking Mississippi. No matter where I was—on a ship or in a store—I've always believed in treating everyone with respect and good manners, because how you show up in everyday life truly matters.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was, “When they say you can't do it, show them you can.” I started young, was often told I couldn’t achieve certain goals, but I proved otherwise—growing from cruise director to shoreside leadership, building confidence, listening to my team, and learning through every certification, journey, and global connection along the way.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the cruise and hospitality industry is to seek mentorship, stay adaptable, and remember that growth takes time—hard work doesn’t lead to instant gratification, but it does pay off. Listen to your team, embrace diverse experiences, and be patient with the journey—it’s where true leadership is built.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in the hospitality industry right now is attracting and retaining younger talent, which requires adapting to evolving work expectations and creating meaningful growth opportunities.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value mentorship, adaptability, and creating a positive, collaborative work environment where everyone feels heard. Travel and real-world experience have been my greatest teachers, and I believe in leading with kindness, strong communication, and a healthy work-life balance.