Purser

A purser is an officer or senior crew member responsible for financial matters and passenger-related services on ships, and in some contexts a senior cabin crew member on aircraft. The term derives from the word purse, referencing the money chest once carried by the officer who managed a vessel’s funds.

In maritime usage, the purser is or was the officer in charge of the ship’s accounts, payroll, provisions, and stores. They may prepare voyage budgets, maintain ledgers, handle contracts with suppliers, and coordinate cargo manifests and passenger lists. On passenger ships and naval vessels, the purser acts as liaison between the captain, the crew, and the passengers, and oversees the financial and provisioning functions.

On modern cruise ships, a Purser’s Department typically handles guest billing and accounts receivable, reservations and ticketing, currency exchange, payroll for crew, cash handling, and guest relations. The purser works with hotel services, finance, and operations to ensure accurate invoicing and smooth passenger services.

In the airline industry, the purser is a senior flight attendant who leads the cabin crew, conducts preflight briefings, ensures compliance with safety procedures, and oversees in-flight service. They serve as a primary liaison with the cockpit crew, address passenger concerns, and coordinate responses during emergencies. Some airlines use chief purser or lead flight attendant terms instead.

Qualifications vary: maritime pursers typically come from hospitality or accounting backgrounds and receive on-the-job training; airline pursers are usually experienced flight attendants with leadership training and certification in safety and emergency procedures.