Job Description

Commercial Ship Operations Manager

Department: Marine Operations / Shipping

Reports To: Chief Executive Officer

JOB SUMMARY

The Commercial Ship Operations Manager plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth and profitable operation of a fleet of vessels. This role involves overseeing chartering, voyage execution, technical coordination, cost control, and ensuring regulatory compliance. The position requires commercial acumen, operational oversight, and technical awareness to optimize vessel performance and profitability.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Commercial Management & Chartering

 Develop and execute commercial strategies to optimize vessel deployment and maximize profitability.

 Possess sound knowledge and working experience with charter party agreements (voyage and time charters), including rider clauses.

 Review and negotiate fixture notes for both inward cargoes (external trading desks) and chartering out of company-owned vessels.

 Coordinate with charterers, brokers, and agents to secure cargoes and maintain optimal fleet employment.

 Ensure all documentation such as NORs, bills of lading, and charter party terms are correctly issued and managed.

2. Voyage Execution & Operational Oversight

 Manage daily operations including voyage planning, scheduling, and monitoring to ensure efficient and timely cargo delivery.

 Guide Masters and onboard crew with voyage instructions and ensure alignment with charter party obligations.

 Monitor bunker procurement, consumption, and optimization across the fleet.

 Liaise with port agents and terminals to facilitate smooth port calls and turnaround.

 Ensure accurate post-fixture operations including laytime calculations,demurrage/despatch settlements, and voyage accounting.

3. Performance Monitoring & Reporting

 Track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to voyage performance, vessel efficiency, and profitability.

 Analyze voyage and OPEX data to identify deviations, implement corrective actions, and report outcomes to management.

 Generate and present voyage profitability reports, highlighting margins and improvement areas.

4. Technical Coordination (with Technical Team)

 Work closely with technical managers to ensure vessels are maintained in optimal operating condition.

 Coordinate dry-docking, repair schedules, and maintenance periods to minimize downtime.

 Review performance data on hull, machinery, and fuel efficiency to guide technical decisions.

 Support planning for vetting inspections, class surveys, PSC checks, and internal audits. 

5. Compliance & Regulation

 Ensure adherence to all international maritime regulations (IMO, MARPOL, SOLAS, ISM) and flag state requirements.

 Ensure contractual compliance with all charter party terms and commercial agreements.

6. Budget & Cost Control

 Monitor OPEX and voyage expenses, identify cost-saving opportunities, and suggest procurement optimizations.

 Assist in the budgeting process for ship maintenance, dry-docking, and voyage execution.

REQUIREMENTS

 Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Studies, Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, or Shipping Business.

 5–10 years of experience in commercial shipping operations, preferably with tankers.

 Strong understanding of vessel operations, technical management, and international maritime regulations.

 Familiarity with PMS systems and commercial shipping tools.

 Excellent negotiation, communication, and leadership skills.

 Seagoing experience or a Certificate of Competency (Deck/Engine) is highly desirable.

LOCATION: Dubai

Tagged as: Office