Harbour Master

Harbour Master

Tor Bay, Devon

Competitive, based on experience.

We seek a suitably qualified and experienced Harbour Master (or possibly a current Deputy) to manage and oversee the safe and efficient operation of our 3 harbours within Tor Bay in Devon, covering both commercial and leisure marine activity. This is a critical leadership role responsible for delivering a commercially viable harbour, compliant with all maritime regulations, managing harbour activities, and overseeing vessel movements within jurisdiction.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure the safe and efficient management of all harbour operations, including vessel traffic, berthing, and pilotage.
• Enforce accountable and statutory compliance with maritime laws, safety regulations, and environmental standards.
• Oversee port security measures in line with ISPS Code requirements.
• Lead and manage a team of port and marine personnel, ensuring training and operational excellence.
• Develop and implement emergency response plans for maritime incidents.
• Liaise with local government authorities, port users, and stakeholders to facilitate smooth operations.
• Monitor and manage navigational aids, dredging activities, and harbour infrastructure maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with Port Marine Safety Code and other relevant legislation.
• Identify, manage and mitigate risk.
• Manage and deliver a commercially viable harbour.
• Identify and drive near-term projects and strategic programmes to sustain and enhance the harbour over time.
• Plan, manage and report on all in-year budgeting. Contribute to strategic financial planning and forecasting.

Personal Requirements:

• Proven experience as a Harbour Master (or as a current Deputy), or in a senior maritime operations role.
• Strong understanding of port and harbour regulations.
• Master Mariner or equivalent maritime qualification preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of marine safety, vessel traffic management, and port security.
• Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and people skills and the ability to engage with and work with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in emergency response and crisis management.
• Financial and budgeting competence.
• The physical ability to cope with the demands of the position, including weather extremes.

Applications and Expressions of Interest:

Torbay Council have engaged The List (Global) Ltd (T/A “The List”) as their exclusively retained search agency to undertake this important assignment. The process will be conducted by The List in conjunction with, and answering to, the Torbay Council.

Initial expressions of interest in the appointment should consist of an up-to-date CV and/or the link to your Linked In profile along with a brief cover e-mail outlining any relevant circumstances of note all sent to hmtorbay@thelistuk.com. All material submitted will be managed in strictest confidence.

Following an initial paper-sift, the full JD and additional information will be shared by The List to those assessed as being potentially suitable and qualified.