Strategic Planning Manager

Damco Spain SL; Elizabeth (NJ); On-site; USD 115,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Insurance

Paid Time Off

401 K Match

Structured Lean programs

Job summary

A global logistics company is seeking a Terminal Planning Manager at its facility in Elizabeth, NJ. The successful candidate will develop operational planning strategies and lead a team to enhance safety, efficiency, and profitability. Responsibilities include optimizing terminal activities and enhancing customer relations. Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree and have a continuous improvement mindset, along with 5+ years of relevant experience in operational settings. The position offers competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in operational planning and people leadership within complex, asset-intense environments.
• Port or terminal experience is a plus.
• Must be able to lead teams through change.

Responsibilities

• Lead terminal planning activities supporting over 1.4 million annual container lifts.
• Optimize berth planning, yard layout, and capacity planning.
• Use data analytics to drive operational decisions.

Skills

Continuous improvement mindset

Strong analytical capability

Collaborative communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Advanced education

Job description

APM Terminals is a key part of the A.P. Moller–Maersk Group, enabling global trade by operating some of the world’s most advanced ports and terminals. APM Terminals Elizabeth is one of the most strategically important terminals in North America and a centerpiece of APM Terminals’ and Maersk’s long‑term growth strategy. Located at the heart of the Port of New York and New Jersey, the terminal plays a critical role in supporting global trade across the U.S. East Coast.

Today, Terminal Elizabeth is undergoing a significant transformation and multi‑year modernization effort—one of the largest and most complex operational projects in the APM Terminals network. This includes major investments in infrastructure, systems, equipment, operating models, and workforce capability, all aimed at creating a safer, more resilient, and higher‑performing terminal.

Are you the person who can take our terminal to the next level by organizing operations strategically and with a focus on the future?

About the Opportunity

As Terminal Planning Manager, you will play a central role in shaping how our terminal operates today and evolves for the future. You will be responsible for developing and executing operational planning strategies that improve safety, efficiency, customer experience, and profitability. This role is key to supporting our ambitious modernization journey, including a significant capacity expansion and the integration of new technologies and systems.

You will lead a team of 3–4 Assistant Managers and report directly to the Strategy and Planning Director. Working closely with operations, technology, and commercial stakeholders, you will translate strategy into executable, data‑driven operational plans that strengthen our competitive position.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead high‑volume terminal planning activities, supporting more than 1.4 million annual container lifts and 12+ weekly vessel calls through advanced operational planning
• Own and optimize berth planning, yard layout, appointment strategies, capacity planning, and ocean carrier SLA performance
• Develop short‑ and long‑term operational strategies that integrate safety, productivity, and technology optimization across terminal operations
• Use TOS‑driven insights and data analytics to model, simulate, and optimize operational scenarios, asset utilization, and throughput
• Govern standardized processes by maintaining planning documentation, process maps, validations, and operational performance reviews
• Strengthen customer relationships by leading operational review meetings focused on service reliability, improvement initiatives, and long‑term partnership value
• Coach and develop Assistant Managers, building strong operational leadership capability and a sustainable talent pipeline

What We Are Looking For

• Continuous improvement mindset: a strong mindset of continuous improvement, naturally curious, committed to solving problems at the root, and driven to make things better every day
• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; advanced education is an advantage
• 5+ years of experience in operational planning and people leadership within complex, asset‑intensive environments; port or terminal experience is a plus
• Strong analytical capability with experience using data, KPIs, and systems to drive operational decisions
• Clear, collaborative communicator who can align stakeholders, influence decisions, and lead teams through change

Benefits & Development Opportunities

• Access structured Lean and continuous improvement programs that strengthen problem‑solving, planning, and leadership capability
• A balanced environment that supports sustainable performance, accountability, and long‑term career growth
• Opportunities to grow through internal mobility, short‑term assignments, and cross‑functional exposure
• Competitive, market‑aligned compensation with attractive secondary benefits

Job Location, Salary & Benefits

Job Location: Elizabeth, NJ
Salary: $115,000 – $130,000K
Benefits: Full time employees are eligible for Health Insurance, Paid Time Off, 401 K Match and more

Physical Demands: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. General office setting, typically the employee may sit comfortably to perform the work, usually at a computer terminal – with short breaks or lunch period. However, there may be some bending, stooping, reaching above shoulder level, walking; standing; carrying light items such as papers, books, or packages of up to twenty‑five pounds. Should be able to hear & speak clearly using phone / headset to communicate with colleagues and customers; be able to navigate, view & enter information on the computer. Able to drive through and navigate the Terminal and may need to travel across the US & Canada and occasionally overseas. Work is occasionally required outdoors on Terminal. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may have to withstand exposure to outdoor/adverse working conditions. Must be able to work variable shifts including evenings & weekends when necessary.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S.

Equal Employment Opportunity

APM Terminals is committed to equal employment opportunity and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities who are applying for positions in the U.S. We value and encourage diversity and solicit applications from all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, veteran status, gender identity, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with all legal requirements.

For assistance or accommodations during the application and hiring process, please contact the Human Resources Department by emailing [e-mail] or [e-mail].