Operations Manager – Port & Terminal

Operations Manager – Port & Terminal

Location: New Holland
Salary: £40,000 - £45,000 depends on experience
Hours: 7.30am – 5.00pm
Contract: Permanent

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced and proactive Operations Manager to join our team and take a key role in the successful day-to-day running of our port and terminal operations.

This is a hands-on leadership position, responsible for coordinating port, stevedoring, vessel and site operations, ensuring that labour, plant, equipment and resources are effectively managed to meet customer and vessel requirements. Working closely with the General Manager, you will support operational and commercial objectives while helping to maintain high standards of safety, efficiency and customer service.

The Role

You will oversee the day-to-day operation of the port, stevedoring activities and vessel movements, ensuring that labour, equipment and resources are planned effectively. You will provide leadership and direction to operational teams, ensuring that site rules, pre-shift checks, reporting procedures and safe working practices are consistently followed. You will also support the General Manager with the ongoing development of the terminal, its people and operational processes, as well as providing rota-based vessel agency cover when required.

A key part of the role will be ensuring the availability and reliability of plant and machinery. You will coordinate repairs, servicing and maintenance requirements, ensuring defects are reported and appropriately managed. Where equipment is unsafe or defective, you will ensure it is controlled and removed from service where necessary.

You will also play an important role in people management and development, supporting the operational team to achieve high standards of performance and competence. Working alongside the General Manager and HR, you will assist with matters including sickness and absence, holiday management, disciplinary, grievance and capability processes. You will also coordinate agency labour requirements, including payroll information and site supervision, while ensuring contractors, visitors and agency workers are properly inducted and briefed.

Health, Safety & Compliance

Health and safety will be at the heart of the role. You will implement, monitor and review risk assessments, safe systems of work, toolbox talks and site working practices. You will also support the investigation of incidents, accidents and non-conformances, ensuring corrective actions are identified and completed promptly.

The role will also involve supporting environmental, emergency and security arrangements, including spill prevention, incident reporting, fire and first-aid procedures and the prevention of unauthorised access to the site.

Administration & Commercial Support

You will ensure operational records and documentation are completed accurately and maintained to the required standard for audits and management review. Working closely with the General Manager, you will also support the control of operating expenditure, identify opportunities to improve efficiency and maintain strong working relationships with customers, contractors, vessel agents and other key stakeholders.

About You

We are looking for a confident, organised and commercially aware individual who can lead people effectively and make sound decisions in a busy operational environment.

The ideal candidate will have experience within port, terminal, vessel, cargo handling or stevedoring operations, together with experience managing operational teams. You will have a good understanding of plant and machinery, maintenance coordination, defect reporting and health and safety procedures.

Experience of working with vessel agents, customers, contractors or statutory bodies would be highly beneficial. You will also need strong communication, organisational and problem-solving skills, together with the ability to remain calm and effective in a fast-paced environment.

Desirable Experience & Qualifications

• IOSH Managing Safely, NEBOSH General Certificate or equivalent health and safety training.
• Previous experience in port, terminal, vessel, cargo handling or stevedoring operations.
• Experience with plant, machinery, maintenance coordination or defect reporting.
• Experience working with vessel agents, customers, contractors or statutory bodies.

Why Join Us?

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced operational professional to take on a key leadership role within a busy port and terminal environment. You will have the opportunity to make a real impact on operational performance, customer service, safety and the development of our people.

If you are ready for your next challenge and have the experience and leadership skills to make a difference, we would love to hear from you.

Apply today and take the next step in your career with us.