Head of Maritime & Heavy Lift Operations

DP World; Dubai; On-site; AED 502,200 - 725,400; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation aligned with senior maritime leadership roles

Influence strategic direction and operational excellence

Work in Dubai's dynamic maritime and shipping hub

Job summary

DP World in Dubai is seeking an Operations Director for Maritime and Heavy Lift operations, leading fleet performance and logistics execution in a global maritime industry leader.

The role demands a strategic focus on compliance and financial control, ensuring operational excellence across complex market environments. Candidates should possess a postgraduate degree and significant experience in senior operations management alongside maritime expertise.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of experience within vessel owning or maritime organizations.
• At least 3 years in a senior operations management role.
• Experience managing MPP and heavy lift vessel operations.
• Strong knowledge of marine operating standards, ISM Code, IMO conventions and ISO frameworks.
• Proven expertise in fleet optimization, cost control and digital transformation initiatives.
• Experience operating in complex international or emerging market environments.

Responsibilities

• Provide executive oversight of logistics, fleet management, commercial performance and project execution.
• Establish KPIs, performance dashboards and operational metrics for data-driven decision making.
• Maintain full accountability for Opex and Capex performance.
• Analyze operational and financial data to drive corrective actions and maximize ROI.
• Lead and develop high-performing operations teams aligned with company strategy and safety culture.
• Ensure fleet operations comply with international maritime regulations and safety codes.
• Oversee risk management policies addressing operational, legal, financial and reputational exposure.

Skills

Maritime business unit leadership

Fleet and asset management

Operational and financial performance control

Risk governance and compliance oversight

Management accounting and cost optimization

Stakeholder and client relationship management

Strategic planning and decision making

Education

Postgraduate qualification in Management or related discipline

Job description

DP World in Dubai is seeking an Operations Director for Maritime and Heavy Lift operations, leading fleet performance and logistics execution in a global maritime industry leader.

The role demands a strategic focus on compliance and financial control, ensuring operational excellence across complex market environments. Candidates should possess a postgraduate degree and significant experience in senior operations management alongside maritime expertise.