Operations Supervisor

Forth Ports Limited; City of Edinburgh; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Forth Ports Limited is looking for an Operations Supervisor to oversee efficient cargo operations at the Port of Leith. This role involves ensuring safety compliance, planning operations, and developing teams. Ideal candidates are experienced in logistics, possess strong leadership qualities, and are flexible to shifts. Join this forward-thinking team during an exciting transformation towards sustainability in port operations.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Generous annual leave entitlement

Defined pension scheme and life assurance

Health promotion events and wellbeing initiatives

Cycle to work scheme and on-site free parking

Employee discount platform

Qualifications

• Proven experience in logistics, distribution, or warehousing operations.
• Strong understanding of health and safety standards and procedures.
• Experience in supervising and developing teams.

Responsibilities

• Supervise day-to-day port operations including safety and work allocation.
• Plan and prepare for ship working and ensure timely cargo handling.
• Promote a proactive safety culture through supervision and compliance.

Skills

Logistics experience

Cargo handling processes knowledge

Planning skills

Communication skills

Leadership skills

Risk assessment competence

Education

Full UK driving licence

Tools

Microsoft Office

IPOS

Job description

Job Description

Location: Forth Ports Ltd, 100 Ocean Drive

Job Title: Operations Supervisor

Location: Port of Leith

Hours: Mon - Thur 0800-1700, Fri 0800-1600 with occasional overtime and on-call

Forth Ports is one of the UK's largest and most dynamic port operator groups, playing a key role in connecting the UK with Europe and beyond. As a multimodal ports owner and operator, we are at the forefront of delivering innovative port-related services. With our recent pledge to achieve carbon neutrality by 2032 and Net Zero status by 2042, we are committed to sustainability and driving the expansion of the UK's renewable energy sector, particularly offshore wind. Now is an exciting time to join our team as we embark on this transformative journey towards a greener future.

About The Role

We are looking for an experienced and proactive Operations Supervisor to oversee and co-ordinate safe, efficient, and cost-effective loading and discharge of cargo, along with all associated warehousing activities. The role ensures compliance with Health and Safety legislation and company procedures, while supporting operational performance across all cargo handling operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise day-to-day port operations including safety, work allocation, performance monitoring, and staff development
• Maintain effective communication and working relationships with Port Operators to ensure smooth daily operations
• Plan and prepare for ship working, considering resources, equipment, weather, and timescales to ensure timely and damage-free cargo handling
• Ensure all plant and equipment are safely operated, well-maintained, and available for scheduled work
• Conduct regular competency assessments and ensure training needs are identified and addressed
• Maintain hygiene and cleanliness standards for cargo handling in line with GAFTA and ISO standards
• Support strong customer relationships by delivering on performance commitments and handling communications professionally
• Collaborate with administration teams to ensure accurate reporting and stock control using Microsoft Office and IPOS systems
• Take a lead role in promoting a proactive safety culture through supervision, risk assessment, inspections, and compliance with Life Saving Rules
• Ensure all staff are inducted, competent, and equipped to carry out their roles safely and effectively
  
  

What We're Looking For

You will be a reliable, safety-focused leader with excellent problem-solving and planning skills. You must be comfortable working in both indoor and outdoor environments and flexible to cover a variety of shifts, including ad hoc weekends and night work, to meet operational demands. A hands-on, motivated, and adaptable approach is essential to thrive in this dynamic and challenging role.

Skills And Qualifications

• Proven experience in logistics, distribution, or warehousing operations
• Strong knowledge of cargo handling processes and equipment
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel, and familiar with IPOS
• Excellent planning, communication, and leadership skills
• Competent in risk assessment and safety compliance
• Experience in supervising and developing teams
• Strong understanding of health and safety standards and procedures
• Able to interpret and apply regulatory requirements (GAFTA, ISPS, SEPA)
• Full UK driving licence
  
  

What Forth Ports Can Offer You

At Forth Ports, our people are our priority, and we are committed to creating a flexible, open, and supportive working culture. As part of our team, you will enjoy:

• A competitive salary
• Generous annual leave entitlement
• A defined pension scheme and life assurance
• Health promotion events and employee wellbeing initiatives
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for you and your family
• Cycle to work scheme and on-site free parking
• Attractive Family Friendly Policies
• Employee discount platform offering discounts on UK-wide restaurants, car rentals, and holidays
• GymFlex health club memberships
  
  

We value diversity and inclusivity, and we are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and will consider all applications for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability status.

How To Apply

If you are an ambitious Operations professional and looking to continue your career as part of a forward-thinking and supportive team, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a cover letter when submitting your application via the ‘Apply Now’ link.

Skills Needed

About The Company

Over our 50 years of experience we have witnessed our ports grow to become important assets to support and deliver growth both for the UK and local economies. The growth impact has been achieved due to the continued investments in our infrastructure, making sure that our ports are able to continually develop their services and support the growth of many industries. Our people have played a significant role. They have delivered the highest quality of service through their expertise, loyalty and flexibility and, without them, we could not have built the strong reputation and the long term agreements with many customers that we have today.

Company Culture

Welcome to Forth Ports Careers. As a leading port operator, we employ over 1,100 people across our ports in Scotland and the Port of Tilbury in London. A career in a port business is very rewarding. There is real variety within each role and significant opportunities for promotion and career development. Don’t just take our word for it; view the “Some of our People” section and the video below to gain insight into the kinds of jobs our employees do, how they’ve grown with us, and what motivates them each day. The port business can be seen as a barometer for the economy and this drives us to be adaptable and fast paced as we identify new business opportunities.

Desired Criteria

Required Criteria

• Proven experience in logistics, distribution, or warehousing operations
• Strong knowledge of cargo handling processes and equipment
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, especially Excel, and familiar with IPOS
• Full UK driving licence
• Full right to work in the UK
  
  

Closing DateSunday 15th June, 2025

Contract Typefulltime

SalaryBased on Experience