Operation Manager/DPA

EMA Ship Management; Dubai; On-site; AED 300,000 - 420,000; Full time

Job summary

EMA Ship Management in Dubai is expanding and seeks an experienced maritime professional to join as Operation Manager and DPA/CSO, overseeing fleet integration, safety, and regulatory compliance. You will coordinate vessel takeovers with Class and Flag Authorities, maintain ISM/ISPS compliance, liaise with captains and charterers, and supervise maintenance and procurement to support seamless voyages.

The role requires travel to vessels worldwide, leadership under pressure, and a proven track

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Operation Manager, DPA, and CSO within the maritime sector.
• In depth knowledge of ISM Code, ISPS Code, MARPOL, SOLAS and other regulations.
• Flexibility to travel globally to vessels for inspections, audits, takeovers or emergencies.

Responsibilities

• Manage vessel takeover processes coordinating with Classification Societies and Flag States.
• Maintain ISM system, revise procedures, and close operational or safety gaps.
• Maintain daily contact with vessel captains to monitor status and voyage performance.
• Bridge communication between charterers and vessels to ensure smooth operations and dispute avoidance.
• Represent company before Flag State authorities, Classification Societies and marine auditors.
• Oversee deck equipment maintenance and coordinate with third-party service providers.
• Coordinate with Technical and Procurement Departments for provisioning and upkeep.
• Monitor safety, pollution prevention, and security per ISM/ISPS; lead emergency procedures and audits.

Skills

Crisis management

Cross-cultural communication

Multi-tasking

Travel readiness

Education

Master Mariner / Chief Officer certificate or maritime degree

Job description

EMA Ship Management is operating under the DESE Group Companies, we are rapidly expanding our fleet in Dubai. We are looking for an experienced, driven, and safety focused maritime professional to step into a dual leadership role as Operation Manager and DPA / CSO, overseeing our operations and ensuring seamless fleet expansion.

Key Responsibilities;

• - Manage the entire vessel takeover process for our growing fleet, coordinating seamlessly with Classification Societies and Flag States to bring new vessels smoothly under our company management.
• - Keep the company’s ISM system updated, revise and organize procedures, and proactively close any operational or safety gaps.
• - Maintain daily contact with vessel captains to monitor real-time ship statuses, operational progress, and voyage performance.
• - Act as a critical bridge of communication between charterers and the vessels to ensure smooth commercial operations and dispute avoidance.
• - Represent the company before third parties, including Flag State authorities, Classification Societies, port state controls, and marine auditors.
• - Oversee deck equipment maintenance and coordinate with third party service providers, technicians, and contractors to resolve any technical or operational issues swiftly.
• - Work in close coordination with the Technical Department and Procurement Department to ensure seamless vessel provisioning, spare parts supply, and technical upkeep.
• - Monitor safety, pollution prevention, and security aspects in full compliance with the ISM and ISPS Codes, leading emergency response procedures and safety audits.

Requirements & Qualifications;

• - Proven experience as an Operation Manager, DPA, and CSO within the maritime sector.
• - Direct hands on experience in vessel takeover processes, with a strong track record of organizing and executing smooth fleet additions in coordination with Class and Flag authorities.
• - Holds a valid Certificate of Competency (Master Mariner / Chief Officer) or an equivalent relevant university degree in Maritime Studies / Marine Engineering.
• - In depth, hands on knowledge of ISM Code, ISPS Code, MARPOL, SOLAS, and other international maritime regulations.
• - Flexibility and readiness to travel globally to vessels as required (for inspections, audits, takeovers, or emergency situations).
• - Strong multi tasking abilities, crisis management, and cross-cultural communication skills.
• - Based in or willing to relocate to Dubai, UAE.