AD Ports Group operates 10 ports and terminals, facilitating global trade and ensuring sustainable growth within the Abu Dhabi Ports Cluster. The Manager of Port Operations Development will analyze and develop operational plans for international port facilities, ensuring safe and efficient handling of cargo, vessel movements, and other port activities. This role involves collaboration across departments to optimize port operations, manage regulations, and contribute to international expansion strategies.

The Manager will focus on increasing efficiency, improving capacity, and ensuring adherence to local and international maritime laws and industry standards. The ideal candidate will have experience in port operations management, strong analytical skills, and the ability to handle complex international projects.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operational Development:

• Analyze and develop operational requirements for international port facilities, ensuring safe and efficient cargo handling and vessel movements.

• Advise on implementing port regulations, safety protocols, and environmental standards in line with local and international maritime laws and best practices.

• Promote standardization and compliance across port facilities by sharing knowledge and operational standards.

2. Stakeholder Management:

• Build and maintain relationships with stakeholders, including customers, shipping lines, government agencies, and other relevant parties.

• Coordinate with internal departments like Finance, Engineering, and HR to ensure proposals align with business objectives.

3. Strategic Planning & Project Management:

• Provide recommendations regarding new international projects, focusing on port and terminal capacity and identifying bottlenecks.

• Prepare OPEX for international port operations and support financial modeling.

• Participate in market research and analysis to identify growth opportunities, including new routes, services, and partnerships.

4. Infrastructure & Technology Implementation:

• Collaborate with stakeholders to plan and execute infrastructure development projects for international port facilities, such as port expansions and modernization.

• Evaluate technology implementation opportunities, including cargo handling equipment, communication systems, and port management software.

5. Risk Management & Contingency Planning:

• Identify risks associated with international port operations and develop contingency plans to minimize impact on operations and financial performance.

6. Training & Development:

• Work with HR to develop and implement training programs for new international port operations staff, ensuring they are equipped with necessary skills.

People Management Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement training programs to enhance the team’s technical capabilities.

• Foster a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and collaboration within the engineering team.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Studies, Business Administration, Logistics, or a related field.

• Experience: Minimum of 8 years in port operations, with at least 5 years in a managerial or supervisory role.

• Certifications: Professional certifications such as Certified Port Executive (CPE) or Certified Maritime Manager (CMM) are highly desirable.

• Skills:

  • Strong knowledge of port and maritime operations, cargo handling, vessel movements, and port logistics.

  • Expertise in local and international maritime laws, regulations, and industry standards.

  • Proven leadership and ability to manage high-performing teams.

  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

  • Proficiency in port management systems, MS Office, and industry-specific tools.

• Languages: Fluency in English is required; knowledge of additional languages is a plus.

• International Experience: Experience in multi-site port operations is an advantage.

Job Type:

• Full-Time

• On-Site

Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates