Vessel Operations Manager

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily vessel operations to ensure safe and efficient voyages.
• Monitor vessel schedules, voyage execution, and operational performance.
• Coordinate with vessel masters, port agents, charterers, and other stakeholders regarding operational requirements.
• Ensure vessels meet contractual obligations and service commitments.
• Optimize vessel utilization and operational efficiency.

• Ensure compliance with international, national, and local maritime regulations.
• Monitor adherence to company Safety Management System (SMS), ISM Code, SOLAS, MARPOL, and other applicable standards.
• Investigate operational incidents, accidents, and near-misses, and implement corrective actions.
• Promote a strong safety culture throughout the fleet.

• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as fuel consumption, voyage performance, turnaround times, and operational costs.
• Analyze operational data and recommend improvements.
• Support initiatives related to sustainability, emissions reduction, and energy efficiency.

• Provide operational support and guidance to vessel masters and onboard personnel.
• Collaborate with crewing teams regarding manpower requirements and crew performance.
• Maintain effective communication with clients, port authorities, agents, and regulatory bodies.
• Resolve operational issues and respond to emergencies as required.

• Develop and manage operational budgets.
• Monitor voyage expenses and operational costs.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising safety or service quality.
• Approve operational expenditures within authorized limits.

• Participate in emergency response planning and crisis management.
• Coordinate responses to vessel emergencies, operational disruptions, and regulatory inspections.
• Ensure contingency plans are maintained and regularly tested.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Maritime Studies, Marine Transportation, Nautical Science, Marine Engineering, Logistics, or a related field.
• Master's degree or relevant maritime management qualification is an advantage.

• Minimum 5–10 years of maritime industry experience.
• Previous experience as a Vessel Operations Manager, Marine Superintendent, Port Captain, Chief Officer, Master Mariner, or similar role preferred.
• Experience managing commercial vessels, tankers, bulk carriers, container ships, offshore vessels, or passenger vessels is advantageous.

• Master Mariner, Chief Mate, or equivalent maritime certification preferred.
• Training in ISM, ISPS, MARPOL, and maritime safety management systems is desirable.

• Strong knowledge of maritime regulations and vessel operations.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and make sound operational decisions.
• Budgeting and cost-control experience.
• Proficiency in maritime software, Microsoft Office Suite, and vessel management systems.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.