Head of Fleet Technical Management

The role is for a Vessel Manager (Chemical / Oil) on a full-time contract, reporting to the General Fleet Manager - Technical, located in London.

Overview of role:

Are you a seasoned professional ready to lead in a globally recognised maritime organisation? Zodiac Maritime Limited, a leader in ship operation and management, invites you to shape the future of ship management as a Vessel Manager. With a rich history of excellence, Zodiac Maritime Limited is committed to innovation, sustainability, and high performance.

In this pivotal role, you will ensure the technical reliability and operational efficiency of a diverse fleet, collaborating with talented professionals and driving success in a fast-paced environment.

Key responsibilities and primary deliverables:

• Technical Management: Prioritisation of safety, reliability, asset condition and cost competitiveness. Monitoring vessel performance, troubleshooting faults, identifying root cause & implementing corrective actions as needed. Responsible for overseeing all scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, repairs, and modifications to the vessel’s hull and machinery. Responsible for planning and coordination of inspection and execution of dry-docking for vessels under responsibility and as assigned. Assurance that all vessel certifications and surveys comply with class, flag, and international standards. Conducting technical inspections and assessments, travelling globally to visit vessels as required. Preparation and delivery of detailed daily, weekly and monthly reports to management. Escalation of key situations or data to management as required. Ensure timely and sufficient support to vessels on all technical matters at all times.
• Costs: Responsible for preparing financial budgets for maintenance, repairs, stores, modifications and dry dockings for vessels under responsibility. Ensuring control on DRC for the vessels under responsibility. Providing insights to significant deviations from budgets for vessels under responsibility. Ensure that proper business/economic evaluations are made for a cost-effective operation.
• Leadership and Communication: Effective sea-to-shore leadership and communication, actively engaging with officers and crew. Management and oversight of onboard staff, advising, coaching and mentoring to build capability and competence. Keep Management closely advised of developments within the area of responsibility. Participate and provide input into performance, development, promotion, disciplinary and grievance procedures. Liaise closely with the Operations and Commercial teams on all aspects of the management of assigned vessels.
• Continuous improvement and efficiencies: Proposal of innovative solutions, cost saving measures, and operational improvements. Evaluation and assurance of service quality from shipyards, workshops, and suppliers, meeting regulatory and customer standards. Provision of operational insights to enhance the safety and efficiency of future vessel designs. Active contribution to decarbonisation initiatives.

Skills profile:

• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues.
• Strong interpersonal and decision-making skills with a focus on building and leading effective teams.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, negotiate effectively, and ensure cost-efficiency in technical operations.
• A driven professional who thrives in a fast-paced, evolving environment while meeting deadlines and handling ambiguity.

Relevant experience & education:

• Experience: Sailed as Senior Engineer with Chemical and/or Oil experience. Subsequently, seasoned shore-based manager with a minimum of two years of experience overseeing vessel operations: strong safety assurance, extensive dry dock coordination; demonstrated delivery of efficiencies. Framo pumps experience is preferred with a strong knowledge of chemical cargo operations and safety protocols. Familiarity with hazardous material handling and tank cleaning systems. Exposure to understanding of new technologies.
• Education: Class 1 certification. Degree in Marine Engineering, Nautical Science, or equivalent qualifications.

Due to the high volume of applications, we regret that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.