Port Operations Manager Region IMEEA

Role

Port Operations Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations of all MEA regional ports.
• Ensure safe, compliant execution of cargo handling, vessel operations and terminal logistics.
• Coordinate with port authorities, terminal operators, stevedores and marine service providers.
• Monitor vessel scheduling, cargo flows, and resource allocation to maximise throughput.
• Support the development of strategic plans for schedule reliability with Lines/Regions.

KPI Governance & Shipping Line Window Management

• Define, implement and monitor a KPI framework covering operational, financial and service performance.
• Track KPIs including Berth Utilisation Rate, , Cargo Dwell Time, Crane Productivity, OTD .
• Adjust and re-calibrate KPI performance windows for shipping lines based on operational data and contractual obligations.
• Conduct regular bilateral reviews with shipping lines; document all KPI window amendments.
• Present KPI dashboards and performance analysis to COO and senior leadership.

OPEX Control & Budget Management

• Own and manage the OPEX budget for port operations across the MEA region.
• Monitor expenditure vs. budget, identify variances and implement cost-control measures.
• Drive efficiency initiatives to reduce unit costs without compromising quality or safety.
• Validate and approve port-related invoices, contracts, and service agreements within delegated authority.
• Provide OPEX forecasts and contribute to the annual budgeting process.

Berthing Window Planning & Optimisation

• Plan, assign and optimise berthing windows for all vessels calling at regional ports.
• Liaise with shipping lines, port planners and marine departments to ensure accurate berthing schedules.
• Proactively manage conflicts, delays and contingency scenarios affecting berthing plans.
• Negotiate and adjust berthing window agreements with shipping lines based on performance data and capacity constraints.
• Maintain a rolling forward-looking berth plan to support operational continuity.

Reporting – Weekly & Monthly

• Produce a Weekly Operations Report: vessel calls & cargo volumes, KPI vs. targets, incidents, berthing schedule adherence, open action items.
• Produce a Monthly Operations Report: full KPI trend analysis, OPEX vs. budget variance, port-by-port benchmarking, berthing utilisation statistics, strategic commentary.
• Present reports to COO MEA; contribute to regional leadership meetings and business reviews.
• Ensure timely and accurate data submission to Group/Corporate reporting systems.

Compliance & Safety

• Strictly adhere to HSSE standards, Joint Working Procedures, and all international and local regulations.
• Proactively identify and propose improvements on port safety and operational needs.
• Manage emergency and crisis scenarios in coordination with port teams, HSSE, and COO.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Maritime, Logistics, Supply Chain or related field
• 10+ years’ experience in port operations / maritime logistics, including 5+ years in senior management
• Master’s degree or professional certifications (CILT, ICS) are a plus

Technical Skills

• Strong OPEX management and KPI/performance expertise
• Experience in berthing planning, multi-port scheduling and shipping line management
• Advanced Excel and good command of port/vessel scheduling systems
• Knowledge of MEA port ecosystems and liner operations is an advantage

Soft Skills & Competencies

• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
• Results-driven, proactive and able to work under pressure
• Agile, adaptable and comfortable in complex, fast-paced environments
• Strong leadership, integrity and team development mindset

Job Details

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