Deputy General Manager - Vessel Operations
Overview
This role is responsible for driving excellence across all Liner Operations for the Group. As a key leader, you will guide and develop a high‑performing team to enhance efficiency and cost-effectiveness in vessel operations, stowage planning, scheduling, and the management of hazardous and special cargo bookings.
You will partner closely with both internal and external stakeholders to optimize fleet deployment, monitor emissions and fuel consumption, and advance operational improvements through process automation and digital tools. You will also contribute to budget planning, lead cost‑optimization initiatives, and support strategic projects as directed by senior management.
Key Responsibilities
Liner Operations
- Lead teams overseeing vessel operations, stowage planning, scheduling, and the review of hazardous and special cargo bookings.
- Manage fleet performance and service reliability across long-haul, regional, subsidiary, and consortium services.
- Mitigate operational disruptions and cost impacts by coordinating service recovery, conducting root‑cause analysis, and implementing preventive measures.
- Establish and monitor KPIs to drive continuous improvement.
- Deliver optimized stowage plans that maximize declared slot utilization with opportunities to exceed targets.
- Enhance crane intensity and implement programs that improve crane productivity (e.g., cycling, twin picks, tandem lifts).
- Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory requirements for dangerous goods, including regular reviews of restricted commodities.
- Continuously improve port turnaround times and operational processes.
- Prepare and manage budgets, including fuel and bunker survey costs.
- Collaborate with procurement and third‑party logistics teams on operational needs and service standards.
- Work with strategy, systems, and efficiency teams to:
- Enhance vessel scheduling tools
- Develop fleet performance and fuel‑efficiency monitoring systems
- Identify and assess fuel‑saving initiatives
- Support crisis management and other strategic directives from senior leadership.
Fleet Studies & Operational Analysis
- Conduct operational and business analyses to support broader company objectives.
- Evaluate vessel suitability for specific service deployments.
- Determine maximum operational intake for each service and provide recommendations on TEU/weight declarations.
- Support efficiency programs such as trim and ballast optimization.
- Provide operational inputs for financial modelling and proforma studies.
Hazardous & Special Cargo Management
- Support the growth of hazardous cargo business.
- Lead the global special cargo operations function handling bookings and customer enquiries.
- Serve as the functional owner for hazardous cargo shared services, including audits and process oversight.
- Ensure timely turnaround of all enquiries and bookings as per agreed service standards.
- Establish and refine processes for faster response times.
- Maintain and update company policies for hazardous and special cargo acceptance.
Financial & Cost Performance Analysis
- Review operational cost deviations and propose corrective actions.
- Lead monthly performance discussions with regional teams and local agencies.
- Conduct deep‑dive cost studies, considering operational workflows, market practices, and regulatory requirements.
- Identify cost‑efficiency targets and track monthly achievements.
- Ensure follow‑up on initiatives with local agencies and validate financial impact assessments.
Requirements
- Degree in Maritime Studies or equivalent professional qualifications
- Business Management degree is a bonus
- Minimum 10 years' experience in liner and marine operations with global container shipping companies
- Sea‑going experience and a Master's license are advantageous
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and perform under pressure
- Self‑motivated, results-driven, and collaborative
- Excellent command of English
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and data visualization; advanced certification in Power BI, Tableau, or QlikView/Sense preferred
FAQs
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