USA - Operations Manager

Inchcape-Shipping-Service; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 75,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous time off

EAP

Career growth

Promotions from within

Flexible schedule

Job summary

Inchcape Shipping Services is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee service delivery excellence for principal clients in the US Gulf region. You will act as the subject matter expert on port operations and vessel support, coordinating with vessel Master, Principal Operator, and local authorities.

You’ll lead a small team, coach staff on customer service, schedule activities, manage vendor relations, and ensure compliance with QHSSE standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Maritime or Business Administration or related field.
• 2–4 years’ experience in general maritime industry (vessel operations).
• TWIC eligibility and local port knowledge are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee service delivery excellence for principals and regional operations.
• Coach Operations Representatives in customer service and problem solving.
• Maintain relationships with local authorities and vendors; manage vessel activities.
• Ensure compliance with QHSSE standards and company procedures.
• Identify opportunities for operational improvements and cost efficiencies.

Skills

Port Operations SME

Bill of Lading knowledge

Maritime laws & US Gulf coast regs

TWIC card eligibility

Valid driver’s license

MS Office suite (Word/Excel/PowerPoint

Vessel boarding & operations

Strong communication

Relationship building

Leadership & team coaching

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Maritime or Business Administration

Job description

You Belong Here… Wherever in the World You Find Yourself.

Connect the world. Make an impact. Build your future with Inchcape.

At Inchcape Shipping Services, we don’t just move ships—we help connect the world.

With a vision for a connected world, our 3,000+ professionals across 60+ countries and 250+ offices bring together local expertise, global perspective, and deep maritime knowledge to help our partners connect to a smoother, smarter ocean.

We are a global team made stronger by the people within it. Wherever you are in the world, you’ll be part of something bigger—working alongside talented colleagues, building meaningful relationships, and helping shape the future of our industry.

Why Inchcape?

We believe our people are at the heart of everything we do.

Our success comes from bringing together diverse perspectives, experiences, skills, and ideas. We empower our people to make an impact, encourage them to challenge the status quo, and provide opportunities to learn, grow, and build a career they can be proud of.

Our values guide how we work every day:

Global Perspective – We connect the world and see the bigger picture.

The Power of People – We rely on the strength of local agent knowledge, expertise, and relationships.

Progress – We embrace new thinking and push for positive change across our industry.

We know what matters. We never stand still. We always reach for more.

#WeAreInchcape

Business Need / Purpose of Role:

The Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing Service Delivery Excellence to our Principals. Serves as the subject matter expert for operational matters and for support within the Region. Creating opportunities for operational improvement, finding the strengths of team members and sharing best practices within the Port. The Operations Manager books relevant services and undertakes vessel boarding as required to support Operations Representatives.

Objectives & Measurement – Key Responsibilities:

Service Delivery

• Ensure service delivery is provided to the highest standard by coaching Operations Representatives on customer service, problem solving and being proactive
• Maintain a positive and collaborative culture.
• Establish and maintain relationships with government departments and agencies, local authorities and stake holders
• Act on escalated matters that require an immediate response and engage in conversation with customers to address any issues or concerns
• Ensuring that employees have a common purpose and maintain a culture where the staff supports one another

Operations

• Advise Local Authorities on vessel details and liaise with Vessel Master and Principal Operator daily
• Acknowledge Appointments and Create PDAs
• Always perform accurate and timely updates of systems
• Monitoring and managing vessel activities to efficiently schedule Operations Representatives’ work activities
• Participate in recruiting activities to identify and evaluate candidates for promotion and hire as needed
• Develop and Maintain relationships with Local Vendors. Review and report their performance on a periodic basis
• Update Daily Handover and monitor email traffic for the office
• Ensure that all work is done meeting compliance and QHSSE standards

Financial

• Continually seek new methods to reduce operational costs and find efficiencies
• Full utilization of the Company’s Operating Systems as per company operating procedures, as directed by line manager

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Must be Subject Matter Expert on Port Operations
• Must have knowledge of shipping documentation i.e. Bill of Lading
• Must have knowledge of local maritime laws, rules & regulations of US Gulf coast region
• Must be able to obtain a TWIC card
• Must have dependable transportation and possess a valid license
• Expertise in international, federal, state and/or local laws, rules and regulations for operations and security (USA & IMO).
• Strong knowledge about the local market, competitor and industry trends
• Demonstrated results – performance, leadership and organizational wise
• Ability to leverage internal and external relationships to expand business opportunities
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in order to communicate with a multinational network
• Strong business partner and relationship building capabilities across a diverse international group
• Quick thinking and comfortable in working in a fast-paced environment where each day brings new challenges
• A self-starter; happy to pitch into the day-to-day where necessary
• Ability to board vessels via gangway and/or pilot ladder alongside berth and over open water.
• Climbing, ascending, descending ladders, stairs, ramps using feet and legs and/or hands and arms.
• Must be able to lift and carry 50 lbs.
• Subject to inside and outside environmental conditions (cold, heat, wind, rain, snow).
• Must possess an advanced proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and Outlook
• Balance multiple tasks, changing priorities & operate within a deadline-oriented environment

Education, Qualifications, Certifications, and Licenses

Education/Experience:

• Bachelors degree in Maritime or Business Administrationor a related major from a public or accredited private academic institution desired.
• 2-4 years’ experience in general maritime industry (mostly vessel operations) with exposure to various commodities and vessel types utilized in the port of employment

Licenses:

• Expected to travel around specific port/terminal locations and surrounding areas and must possess their own reliable transportation, a valid "non-expired" state drivers' license,and vehicle insurance coverage.
• Once selected for employment, federal regulations require that the applicant must either undergo a federal background check as part of the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) program or already possess a TWIC. The TWIC must be obtained within 30 days of appointment, and be maintained for the duration of employment. For further program information, visit: https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic

Why Inchcape Shipping Services?

We believe in building a diverse and high performing workforce, that works together to provide our partners with the exceptional service they deserve. To reach the highest standards we depend on our people, their welfare, training, and expertise. We realize the value of the diversity of our people and know that their unique experiences, skills, and passions – strengthens the organization, stimulates creativity, and promotes the exchange of ideas – helping you to build a rich and rewarding career.

What you’ll get:

We understand that different families have different needs, which is why we’re always evolving our benefits to accommodate our employees.

Along with health and financial benefits, our employees enjoy a variety of other perks, tuition assistance,employeeresource groups, and collaborativeworkspaces— some offices even welcome dogs.

In addition to our traditional benefits and perks, we sponsor various events throughout the year. And weprovidea culturebased onlearning,the support of anengaged team,andan inclusive environment where all employees are valued.

We alsoencourage a better work-life balance with our flexibility. Whilewe know in-office collaboration is critical to our vision, we recognize that not all work needs to be done within an office environment,full-time. With consistent communication and digital collaboration tools, Inchcape has enabledour employees to find a balance that feels fulfilling and productive for each individual situation.

• Generous time off and paid holidays
  • Three weeks’ vacation (immediately upon date of hire), 10 days Personal/Sick time, 12 paid holidays
  • Paid parental leave
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Performance and Recognition – You are rewarded for achieving success by merit increases and reaching milestones.
• Career growth and opportunities for promotions. We develop and hire from within!
• Plus, much more!

We have you covered for anything life could throw your way.

Deciding where you want to work is an important decision. Choosing a company that support your professional and personal goals is essential. Inchcape provides the resources, culture, and leadership you need to be successful, to build something you’re proud of, and take advantage of all the future holds.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X to meet our employees and see what makes us who we are.

Whoyouare is whoweare.

Inchcape is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. Inchcape encourages applicants of all ages. As part of this commitment, Inchcape will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please email [e-mail] the accommodation.

#LI-JN1