Senior Pilotage & Deputy Harbour Master — Humber Estuary

Associated British Ports; Hessle; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Associated British Ports seeks an experienced maritime professional to lead Humber marine operations as Deputy Harbour Master & Senior Pilotage Operations Manager. Reporting to the Harbour Master, you will oversee pilotage, statutory duties and safety standards across one of the UK's busiest estuaries.

The role requires extensive piloting operations management experience, strong leadership, and the ability to drive continuous improvement while engaging with key stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in pilotage operations management.
• Thorough knowledge of the Port Marine Safety Code and related legislation.
• Proven leadership of pilots and marine staff.
• Ability to balance commercial and operational needs with safety.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Full UK driving licence and ability to obtain security clearance.
• Experience in marine incident investigations and emergency response.

Responsibilities

• Lead safe and efficient delivery of pilotage services across the Humber Estuary.
• Deputise for the Harbour Master and perform Statutory Harbour Authority duties.
• Ensure compliance with the Port Marine Safety Code and related legislation.
• Develop and mentor a skilled team of pilots and marine staff.
• Coordinate with Vessel Traffic Services and port operators.
• Lead marine incident response and investigations.
• Contribute to planning and delivery of marine projects.
• Liaise with MCA, MAIB, HSE and regulatory bodies.
• Participate in Humber marine management on-call rota.

Skills

Pilotage operations management

Port management

Port Marine Safety Code knowledge

Navigational risk management

Leadership and people management

Stakeholder engagement

Decision-making and problem-solving

Full UK driving licence

Security clearance eligibility

Harbour Master qualification progress

Pilotage experience in CH Authority

Education

Harbour Master qualification (or working towards)

Job description

Associated British Ports seeks an experienced maritime professional to lead Humber marine operations as Deputy Harbour Master & Senior Pilotage Operations Manager. Reporting to the Harbour Master, you will oversee pilotage, statutory duties and safety standards across one of the UK's busiest estuaries.

The role requires extensive piloting operations management experience, strong leadership, and the ability to drive continuous improvement while engaging with key stakeholders.