Lines Operations Manager Region IMEEA

Job description:

Role : 

To ensure the safe, efficient, and cost-effective management of all port operations across the MEA regional portfolio. The Senior Port Operations Manager drives operational excellence by overseeing KPI governance, OPEX control, berthing window optimisation, and shipping line performance management, while delivering accurate and timely reporting to the COO MEA.

Responsabilities:

Port Operations Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations of all MEA regional ports.
• Ensure safe, compliant execution of cargo handling, vessel operations and terminal logistics.
• Coordinate with port authorities, terminal operators, stevedores and marine service providers.
• Monitor vessel scheduling, cargo flows, and resource allocation to maximise throughput.
• Support the development of strategic plans for schedule reliability with Lines/Regions.

KPI Governance & Shipping Line Window Management

• Define, implement and monitor a KPI framework covering operational, financial and service performance.
• Track KPIs including Berth Utilisation Rate, , Cargo Dwell Time, Crane Productivity, OTD .
• Adjust and re-calibrate KPI performance windows for shipping lines based on operational data and contractual obligations.
• Conduct regular bilateral reviews with shipping lines; document all KPI window amendments.
• Present KPI dashboards and performance analysis to COO and senior leadership.

OPEX Control & Budget Management

• Own and manage the OPEX budget for port operations across the MEA region.
• Monitor expenditure vs. budget, identify variances and implement cost-control measures.
• Drive efficiency initiatives to reduce unit costs without compromising quality or safety.
• Validate and approve port-related invoices, contracts, and service agreements within delegated authority.
• Provide OPEX forecasts and contribute to the annual budgeting process.

Berthing Window Planning & Optimisation

• Plan, assign and optimise berthing windows for all vessels calling at regional ports.
• Liaise with shipping lines, port planners and marine departments to ensure accurate berthing schedules.
• Proactively manage conflicts, delays and contingency scenarios affecting berthing plans.
• Negotiate and adjust berthing window agreements with shipping lines based on performance data and capacity constraints.
• Maintain a rolling forward-looking berth plan to support operational continuity.

Reporting – Weekly & Monthly

• Produce a Weekly Operations Report: vessel calls & cargo volumes, KPI vs. targets, incidents, berthing schedule adherence, open action items.
• Produce a Monthly Operations Report: full KPI trend analysis, OPEX vs. budget variance, port-by-port benchmarking, berthing utilisation statistics, strategic commentary.
• Present reports to COO MEA; contribute to regional leadership meetings and business reviews.
• Ensure timely and accurate data submission to Group/Corporate reporting systems.

Compliance & Safety

• Strictly adhere to HSSE standards, Joint Working Procedures, and all international and local regulations.
• Proactively identify and propose improvements on port safety and operational needs.
• Manage emergency and crisis scenarios in coordination with port teams, HSSE, and COO.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Maritime, Logistics, Supply Chain or related field
• 10+ years’ experience in port operations / maritime logistics, including 5+ years in senior management
• Master’s degree or professional certifications (CILT, ICS) are a plus

Technical Skills

• Strong OPEX management and KPI/performance expertise
• Experience in berthing planning, multi-port scheduling and shipping line management
• Advanced Excel and good command of port/vessel scheduling systems
• Knowledge of MEA port ecosystems and liner operations is an advantage

Soft Skills & Competencies

• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
• Results-driven, proactive and able to work under pressure
• Agile, adaptable and comfortable in complex, fast-paced environments
• Strong leadership, integrity and team development mindset