Vessel Planner

Ocean Network Express; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A global shipping company is seeking a Vessel Planner to manage stowage planning for vessels across Europe and Africa. This pivotal role requires experience in logistics, ensuring safety and efficiency in operations while working closely with partners. Candidates should have at least one year of relevant experience and the ability to cultivate strong relationships. The position offers a hybrid working model and comprehensive benefits, making it an exciting opportunity for professionals in the shipping industry.

Benefits

Paid annual leave of 25 days

Hybrid working arrangement

Membership of Company's Group Personal Pension Plan

Performance-related pay

Private Medical Cover (BUPA) after two years

Access to the UK’s TaxFree Childcare scheme

Qualifications

• Minimum of one year of stowage planning experience across Europe.
• Strong analytical and methodical approach.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Optimize stowage planning for container vessels.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Liaise with partners and stakeholders regarding cargo operations.

Skills

Operational/commercial awareness

Analytical skills

Relationship building

Prioritisation

Education

Degree level education

Job description

Are you ready to play a critical role in the global Shipping Industry? We are looking for a precision-minded Vessel Planner to take command of the safe and efficient stowage planning for ONE vessels across the Europe and Africa (EUA) region.

In this pivotal position, you will be optimizing complex logistics and overseeing the intricate handling of Special Cargo. You will ensure every vessel operates at peak efficiency while maintaining the highest safety standards - while enjoying the freedom of a hybrid work model that fits your life.

The Role

Strategy implementation and optimisation

• Follow operational strategies for own operated vessels based on GHQ policy and General Manager’s directions
• Ensure ONE operates safe, cost efficient and competitive service
• Participate in the Alliance discussions as required

Vessel Operations and Marine safety

• Based on policy and directions of GHQ, ensure safety standards are maintained
• Maintain ongoing relationships with Partners, terminals and local Country Organizations to find the best balance between cost efficiency and service quality
• Responsible to, and acting on behalf of, the Master for the safe and efficient operation of container vessels, including the stowage of dangerous goods and uncontainerised cargo, ensuring compliance with all relevant national, international and company regulations
• Monitor and report operational cost related to stowage planning
• Liaise with other consortia members with regard to allocations, special cargo etc
• Participate in regular operations meetings
• Advise other departments on technical matters, i.e. heavy lifts, OOG cargo, damage prevention etc.
• Approve special cargo on ONE vessels
• Cargo accident / stevedore damage handling
• Operational capacity monitoring
• Protect the Company interest

Cost Control / Management Plan

• Implement measures to reduce costs
• Ensure efficient stowage planning conforming with the GHQ directions
• Support Budget control
• Monitor KPI´s for internal and external stakeholders
• General problem solving

Location: London RHQ but does require overseas travel from time to time

The Requirements

• Preferably educated to a minimum of degree level
• Minimum of one year of stowage planning experience pan Europe
• Previous sea experience is an advantage
• Strong operational / commercial awareness essential
• Alliance experience preferred
• Ability to forge working relationships both internally and with external stakeholders at all levels
• Analytical and methodical
• Ability to prioritise tasks and adhere to strict deadlines
• Out of hours working including weekends is required

The Benefits

• Paid annual leave of 25 days per annum plus UK bank and public holidays.
• Hybrid working arrangement.
• Membership of the Company’s Group Personal Pension Plan.
• Performance Related Pay a pay award and discretionary annual bonus linked directly to their performance in addition to annual review.
• Permanent Health Insurance.
• Death in Service.
• Private Medical Cover (BUPA) after two years’ service.
• Employee Assistance Programme, with free independent confidential support and virtual GP services.
• An interest free annual travel season ticket loan.
• Family leave policies enhanced above statutory.
• Access to the UK’s TaxFree Childcare scheme.
• Enhanced company sick pay policy.
• Medical health check.
• Annual eye test and contribution towards glasses for VDU prescriptions.
• Online employee discount platform.

Application

The closing date for this vacancy is 29th December 2025 but if a significant number of applications are received, it will close earlier.

Applicants must have an existing right to live and work in the UK.