Cargo Operations & Logistics Manager

Aberfeldy; Auckland; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

KiwiSaver matched up to 7%

Medical Insurance

Professional development

Job summary

Aberfeldy Shipping is seeking an experienced Cargo Operations & Logistics Manager to lead cargo planning, vessel scheduling, port coordination, and operational performance from our Auckland base. You will guide containerised and break-bulk movements across New Zealand with a focus on safety, efficiency, and reliability.

The role requires strong leadership, planning, and collaboration with ports, customers, and logistics partners to optimise assets, drive performance, and support sustainable

Qualifications

• Maritime qualification, Nautical qualification, or equivalent shipping industry experience.
• Minimum 5 to 7 years' experience in maritime, shipping, port, logistics, or marine operations.
• Demonstrated experience managing vessel operations and cargo planning.
• Strong understanding of maritime cargo transport regulations, safety management systems, and compliance requirements.
• Proven experience in vessel scheduling, cargo planning, and fleet operations.

Responsibilities

• Manage vessel schedules, voyage planning, and operational performance.
• Monitor port line-ups, berth allocations, and shipping movements.
• Coordinate cargo receivals, cut-off times, and loading plans with customers and operational stakeholders.
• Liaise closely with ports, stevedores, terminal operators, shipping agents, and cargo handlers.
• Maintain accurate operational records, reports, and performance metrics.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across shipping and logistics operations.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Analytical

Stakeholder engagement

Problem solving

Education

Maritime/Nautical qualification

Job description

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Aberfeldy Shipping is a growing New Zealand coastal shipping company committed to providing safe, reliable, and efficient maritime transport solutions throughout New Zealand. We work closely with ports, customers, logistics providers, and maritime stakeholders to deliver seamless cargo operations while maintaining the highest standards of safety, compliance, and operational excellence.

We are currently seeking an experienced, highly motivated, and results-driven Cargo Operations & Logistics Manager to join our Auckland-based team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping the operational foundation of a developing company, overseeing cargo planning, vessel scheduling, port coordination, and operational performance while contributing directly to our long-term growth and success in the New Zealand maritime industry.

The Opportunity

The Cargo Operations & Logistics Manager is responsible for overseeing vessel planning, coastal shipping operations, cargo coordination, port liaison, container and equipment control, and ensuring the safe and efficient movement of containerised and break-bulk cargo throughout New Zealand.

This is a key leadership role that will establish, develop, and continuously improve the operational interface between Aberfeldy Shipping, 3I Ports & Logistics, and New Zealand port operators, minimising delays, enhancing productivity, and delivering superior service to customers.

Key responsibilities

• Manage vessel schedules, voyage planning, and operational performance.
• Monitor port line-ups, berth allocations, and shipping movements.
• Coordinate cargo receivals, cut-off times, and loading plans with customers and operational stakeholders.
• Liaise closely with ports, stevedores, terminal operators, shipping agents, and cargo handlers.
• Ensure efficient planning and movement of containerised and break-bulk cargo across New Zealand.
• Support vessel masters and crews to ensure safe and efficient cargo operations.
• Conduct port and vessel visits as required to maintain operational standards.
• Assist with cargo load surveys, investigations, insurance claims, and incident reporting.
• Maintain accurate operational records, reports, and performance metrics.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across shipping and logistics operations.

Container & Equipment Control

• Oversee container fleet management and equipment utilisation.
• Monitor container movements, inventory levels, maintenance requirements, and equipment availability.
• Ensure the efficient allocation and positioning of containers to meet operational demands.
• Develop reporting systems and performance measures to improve asset utilisation and reduce losses.
• Work closely with operational teams to optimise equipment availability and operational efficiency.
• Participate with vendor management and contract negotiation for port transport.

About you

To succeed in this role, you will be a highly organised cargo planner with strong operational, planning, and leadership capabilities.

Qualifications & Experience

• Maritime qualification, Nautical qualification, or equivalent shipping industry experience.
• Minimum 5 to 7 years' experience in maritime, shipping, port, logistics, or marine operations.
• Demonstrated experience managing vessel operations and cargo planning.
• Strong understanding of maritime cargo transport regulations, safety management systems, and compliance requirements.
• Proven experience in vessel scheduling, cargo planning, and fleet operations.
• Knowledge of coastal shipping, container logistics, and port operations within New Zealand is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong analytical and reporting capabilities.
• All candidates must undergo Psychometric pre-employment check.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to play a key role in the growth of an expanding New Zealand shipping company.
• Professional development and career progression opportunities.
• Exposure to diverse maritime, port, and logistics operations.
• Supportive and safety-focused working environment.
• KiwiSaver matched up to 7%
• Medical Insurance