Manager - Operations - FT

Role Overview

Manager - Operations at AD Ports Group, based at Fujairah Terminal. Full-time position.

Role Purpose

Manage overall operations at Fujairah Terminal, develop initiatives, monitor operational productivity, enforce compliance, control material and equipment availability, and review operational policies and procedures to achieve departmental objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Operations Management

• Manage Fujairah Terminal activities, evaluate and optimize processes, update plans, and develop initiatives to ensure smooth operations.
• Participate in operations meetings to evaluate productivity levels, solve problems encountered during shifts, and validate mitigation strategies to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Enforce compliance with safety regulations, environmental standards, shipping protocols, and laws set by the Federal Government, Abu Dhabi Government, Department of Transport, and Abu Dhabi Ports.
• Oversee the availability of materials and cargo equipment for smooth discharging and loading operations and maximum productivity.
• Review and deliver reports reflecting operation progress and factors impacting productivity, cost, time, safety, and security.
• Review Fujairah Terminal operational policies, procedures, and guidelines to improve efficiency and productivity.
• Maintain strong relationships with Government entities and external stakeholders, including shipping agents, vessels, and cargo operators.
• Manage and validate the condition of all terminal equipment including ITV, forklifts, Reach stackers, RTG, and Bobcat; troubleshoot issues; and direct the maintenance team for repairs and upgrades to ensure the safety of equipment and cargo.
• Lead vessel hatch and quay side operations prior to commencement of cargo operations.
• Ensure that strategic departmental and company projects are concluded and delivered in a timely manner.

People Management

• Ensure smooth operations within team members.
• Provide strong and visionary leadership, supervision, and guidance to the team, setting clear expectations and creating a culture of accountability.
• Participate in the recruitment process and organizational restructuring efforts to bring in individuals with the right skill sets and cultural fit for the team.
• Offer coaching and mentoring to team members to enhance their capabilities and problem-solving skills.
• Ensure balanced workload distribution among team members, preventing burnout and promoting productivity.
• Identify skill gaps and training requirements for the teams to ensure consistent high performance.

Strategic Management

• Develop and implement strategies and cost control objectives to achieve high departmental performance and commensurate profit contribution within given parameters.
• Represent Fujairah Terminal's CEO in different meetings and conferences when needed.
• Maximize cost savings in Fujairah Terminal.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients, partners, and stakeholders in the region and ensure high levels of customer satisfaction and retention.
• Assess risks and develop risk mitigation strategies to minimize potential liabilities.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Maritime and Ports, Engineering, or a related field.
• Master's degree is a plus.
• Ports & Maritime Certificate is a plus.
• Minimum 12–15 years of experience in a similar role.
• Experience in operations management roles in seaports, including container and multipurposed terminals.
• Full understanding of the container and general cargo shipping industry.
• Hands-on understanding and experience of modern terminal operations.
• Experience and understanding of vessel and yard planning.
• Experience in finance-related matters, budgeting, and defense figures.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent English.
• Arabic is an added advantage.
• Ability to provide leadership and obtain cooperation and assistance to meet objectives within a multi-cultural environment.
• Strong communication skills.
• Negotiation and conflict resolution skills.