Marine Operations Manager - WhatJobs Direct

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Sur place; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 600 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Medical aid

Provident fund contributions

Performance-based bonuses

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is assisting Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal-based hiring client to recruit a Marine Operations Manager. The role oversees all marine operations within the port and surrounding waters, directing berthing, unberthing, and anchorage, and coordinating pilots, tugs, and support services.

You will lead a team of marine coordinators and staff, ensuring safety, compliance with SOLAS/MARPOL, and efficient service delivery while engaging with authorities, shipping lines, and cargo owners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Operations or related field, or equivalent experience.
• 8+ years in marine ops; 3+ years in a managerial role.
• Strong knowledge of port ops, VTMS and cargo handling.

Responsabilités

• Direct and manage daily marine operations including berthing, unberthing, and anchorage.
• Supervise marine coordinators, pilot boats and operational staff.
• Develop SOPs for marine activities prioritising safety and efficiency.

Connaissances

Leadership

Decision making

Crisis management

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Formation

Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Operations/Maritime field

Outils

VTMS

Navigation systems

Operational planning tools

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a prominent maritime services provider in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a highly experienced and proactive Marine Operations Manager. This crucial role involves overseeing all aspects of marine operations within the port and its surrounding waters, ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant execution of ship movements, cargo handling support, and vessel services. The Marine Operations Manager will be responsible for managing a team of marine coordinators, pilots, and support staff, maintaining operational readiness, and liaising with port authorities, shipping agents, and other key stakeholders. This is a vital position within the bustling Richards Bay harbour, contributing significantly to the Leisure & Sports and commercial maritime sectors.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage daily marine operations, including vessel berthing, unberthing, and anchorage assignments, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and port regulations.
• Supervise and coordinate the activities of marine coordinators, pilot boat crews, and other operational personnel.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all marine activities, focusing on efficiency, safety, and environmental protection.
• Monitor vessel traffic, weather conditions, and tidal patterns to ensure safe navigation and operations within the Richards Bay port limits.
• Manage relationships and collaborate closely with port authorities, harbour masters, pilot associations, shipping lines, and cargo owners.
• Oversee the scheduling and dispatch of pilot boats, tugs, and other marine support services.
• Ensure compliance with international maritime regulations (SOLAS, MARPOL) and local port state control requirements.
• Respond effectively to emergencies and incidents, coordinating response efforts and conducting post-incident investigations.
• Manage operational budgets, cost control measures, and resource allocation for the marine operations department.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of marine operations and service delivery in Richards Bay.

Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Operations, Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in marine operations, port management, or ship's agency, with at least 3 years in a managerial capacity.
• Strong knowledge of port operations, vessel traffic management systems (VTMS), ship handling, and cargo operations.
• Familiarity with international and South African maritime legislation and regulations.
• Excellent leadership, decision-making, and crisis management skills.
• Proficiency in relevant software, including navigation systems and operational planning tools.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse stakeholders.
• A valid maritime qualification (e.g., Master Mariner, Pilot License) is highly advantageous.
• Ability to work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and public holidays, as required by port operations.
• Residency or willingness to relocate to Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive executive salary and benefits package, including medical aid, provident fund contributions, and potential for performance-based bonuses.

Opportunities for professional development and advancement within the maritime Leisure & Sports and logistics industry in Richards Bay are available.

This role provides a unique chance to lead critical operations in one of South Africa's busiest ports.