Port Operations Director

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 4,200,000 - 7,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary + bonus

Relocation assistance

Medical, dental & life insurance

Annual leave entitlement

Company vehicle & fuel allowance

International travel opportunities

Leadership development programs

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a seasoned Port Operations Director to lead Richards Bay port operations in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The role drives cargo handling, vessel scheduling, and terminal management while shaping strategies to boost efficiency, safety, and environmental performance.

The executive will coordinate with shipping lines, port authorities, and government agencies, overseeing budgets, KPIs, and crisis response to ensure resilient, compliant operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Operations, Logistics, Business Administration, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day port operations, including cargo handling, vessel scheduling, and terminal management.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance port efficiency, safety, and environmental performance.
• Manage relationships with shipping lines, customs authorities, government agencies, and other stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with maritime regulations and safety standards.
• Lead and develop a high-performing port team.
• Manage the port's budget, capex, and resource allocation.
• Implement KPIs to drive continuous improvement in operations.
• Oversee emergency response planning to ensure port resilience.
• Drive adoption of new technologies to optimize port operations.
• Represent the company in port-related forums and industry associations.

Skills

Leadership

Negotiation

Communication

Stakeholder management

Supply chain

Crisis management

Analytics tools

Education

Bachelor's degree (Maritime Operations, Logistics, Business Admin)

MBA or Master’s degree

Tools

Port management software

Operational analytics tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major maritime logistics company, is actively recruiting for a dynamic and seasoned Port Operations Director to lead and manage all facets of operations at the Richards Bay port. This executive position requires a leader with extensive experience in port management, maritime logistics, and supply chain optimization. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the efficient and safe handling of all cargo, managing terminal operations, coordinating with shipping lines and port authorities, and driving operational excellence. You will play a crucial role in maintaining the competitive edge of our operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA , by implementing cutting-edge technologies and best practices. This is a strategic leadership opportunity for an individual passionate about the maritime industry and committed to achieving operational superiority. You will be the key decision-maker for all port-related activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day port operations, including cargo handling, vessel scheduling, and terminal management.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance port efficiency, safety, and environmental performance.
• Manage relationships with shipping lines, customs authorities, government agencies, and other stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with all international and national maritime regulations and safety standards.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of port professionals.
• Manage the port's operational budget, capital expenditures, and resource allocation.
• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive continuous improvement in operational metrics.
• Oversee emergency response planning and execution to ensure port resilience.
• Drive innovation and the adoption of new technologies to optimize port operations.
• Represent the company in port-related forums and industry associations.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Maritime Operations, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
• An MBA or Master's in a relevant discipline is highly preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in port management, terminal operations, or maritime logistics, with at least 5 years in a senior management role.
• In-depth knowledge of port operations, cargo handling equipment, and maritime safety regulations.
• Proven experience in managing large operational budgets and capital projects.
• Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Strong understanding of supply chain management principles and global trade dynamics.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships.
• Experience in the Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA area is a significant advantage.
• Proficiency in port management software and operational analytics tools.
• Ability to make critical decisions under pressure and manage crisis situations effectively.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive salary and bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and life insurance coverage.
• Relocation assistance if applicable.
• Significant annual leave entitlement.
• Executive-level retirement savings plan contributions.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional networking.
• Access to advanced training and leadership development programs.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance.
• A challenging and rewarding role within a global industry leader.
• Prime office location with sea views in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA .