Ports Operations Manager

Isle of Man Government; Douglas; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation package up to £10,000

Competitive salary

Generous annual leave & holidays

Flexi-time scheme

Occasional remote working with prior‑m

Pension options

Training & development facilities

Gym and pool discounts

Staff Welfare Service access

Cycle to Work scheme

Job summary

The Isle of Man Government is recruiting an experienced operational leader to oversee the safe, efficient and effective management of harbour operations across the Island.

You will lead the entire ports network, working across commercial ferry operations, leisure and fishing activity, marine services and safety management, while shaping future strategy and ensuring high standards of customer service and performance.

Qualifications

• Experience leading complex port operations and safety programmes.
• Ability to coordinate across multiple teams, agencies and external partners.
• Strong strategic planning and delivery skills within a public sector environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee safe, efficient and effective management of harbour operations across the Island.
• Lead the ports network in commercial ferry operations, leisure and fishing activity, marine services and safety management.
• Collaborate with Port Managers and teams to deliver high quality, reliable port services.
• Contribute to strategy development and continuous improvement of harbour operations.

Skills

Leadership

Operations management

Safety management

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Degree in maritime/engineering/business or equivalent

Job description

\"These are not traditional management positions. They are pivotal roles that will help shape the future direction of the Harbours Division.\"

The Ports Operations Manager will provide leadership across the Island's port network, helping ensure operations remain safe, efficient and responsive to the needs of those who rely on our harbours every day.

What makes these opportunities particularly exciting is the breadth of responsibility. Unlike many larger organisations where roles can become highly specialised, these positions provide exposure to everything from strategic planning and major projects to operational leadership and stakeholder engagement.

- David Gooberman, Director of Harbours

About the role

The Isle of Man's ports are essential to the Island's economy, connectivity and resilience. We are seeking an experienced operational leader to oversee the safe, efficient and effective management of harbour operations across the Island.

The Ports Operations Manager role is a unique opportunity to help lead an entire ports network, working across commercial ferry operations, leisure and fishing activity, marine services, safety management and emergency preparedness.

Lead the operation of the Isle of Man's ports

As a key member of the Harbours Division leadership team, you will help shape the future of port operations while ensuring the highest standards of safety, customer service and operational performance.

Working closely with Port Managers and operational teams, you’ll help deliver consistent, high‑quality services. This is your chance to lead a vital service, influence how ports operate across the Island and contribute to the continued development of harbour operations and lead the safe and efficient operation of the Isle of Man's entire ports network, helping shape the future of one of the Island's most critical public services.

No two days are the same

One day you may be reviewing marine safety arrangements, the next supporting a major ferry operation, responding to an operational incident, working with commercial customers, or helping develop the future strategy for the Island's ports.

You will work alongside Government, emergency services, shipping operators, maritime businesses and international stakeholders to ensure the Isle of Man's harbours continue to operate safely and effectively.

A career and lifestyle opportunity

Few roles offer the opportunity to help lead the operation of an entire national ports network while enjoying a fantastic work‑life balance. The Isle of Man provides a rare combination of operational responsibility, strategic influence and leadership within a self‑governing island nation

Within minutes of leaving work, you can be enjoying coastal walks, cycling, sailing, paddleboarding or exploring the Island's outstanding natural environment. Commute times are short, communities are welcoming and the quality of life is exceptional.

The Island combines operational leadership on a national scale with a lifestyle that enables more time for family, hobbies and the outdoors. This is an opportunity to play a pivotal role in the future of the Isle of Man's ports while making a visible impact every day.

A workplace that invests in you

• A competitive salary that increases each 12 months until you reach the salary maximum.


• A relocation package of up to £10,000 based on receipts is available for this role.


• A generous annual leave entitlement, a Privilege Day and 10 Bank Holidays; your annual leave will increase after your first year and again after your third year.


• A flexi-time scheme where you can accrue additional time worked to take time off in line with the relevant flexi-time scheme.


• Enjoy occasional remote working opportunities, with prior agreement from your manager.


• Subject to meeting eligibility criteria, the IOM Public Service offers two pension arrangements: the Isle of Man Government Unified Scheme 2011 or the Isle of Man Government Defined Contribution (DC) Arrangement.


• Access to the Learning, Education and Development training facility, which is exclusively for Public Service employees, to keep on top of your continuous professional development.


• Discounted access to the NSC gym and island swimming pools as well as 1-to-1 support programmes and exercise classes with qualified instructors.


• Free access to the Isle of Man Government Staff Welfare Service which offers professional counselling, emotional support and signposting on a wide range of issues.


• Ability to apply for an unpaid career break after 3 years’ service.


• Access to the Isle of Man Public Service Cycle to Work scheme after your first year of employment.

Making the Isle of Man your new home

A hidden gem in the Irish Sea, the Isle of Man boasts an extensive coastline, stunning natural landscapes and unspoilt beaches. There are an abundance of opportunities and lots of places to discover!

You can visit our great cafes, bars and restaurants, and become part of the Island’s close‑knot community. The island is well connected to the UK with quick, direct flights and ferries to many destinations.

Want to find out more about Island life? Visit www.locate.im to find out why you should make your move to the Isle of Man!

Working for the Isle of Man Public Service

We are the largest employer on the island delivering a diverse range of services to the people of the Isle of Man. We care, nurture and value our employees’ wellbeing, development and career and place great importance on rewarding the commitment by our wonderful employees.

We support and promote flexible working, recognising the importance of working flexibly around your life and commitments and the benefits in improving work‑life balance. We are happy to discuss flexible working arrangements where possible and if interested you should discuss this with the Recruiting Manager.

The Isle of Man Public Service is committed to creating an inclusive culture that celebrates equality, diversity and inclusion. We understand how a wide range of views and experiences can benefit us as we work together for the Isle of Man.

Your candidate experience is important to us. As a proud member of The Circle Back Initiative, we commit to respond to every applicant that applies for an Isle of Man Public Service role.

We are committed to net zero by 2050 and as an entire nation UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, we are transforming public services for a sustainable future and your contributions will directly benefit our community, economy, and environment.

We understand that you might have some questions about the role and the Recruiting Manager is on hand to support you. You can contact them at [e-mail].