At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations at Harwich International Port, ensuring safety and efficiency.
- Company: Join Hutchison Ports UK, a leader in the maritime industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pension, life assurance, and wellness support.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with diverse employee networks and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic, community-focused environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in safety-critical operations and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a Senior Manager to lead Operations at Harwich International Port, ensuring they are safe, efficient, customer-focused and commercially strong. This is a senior leadership role with full accountability for operational performance, people leadership, safety, financial control and continuous improvement across the Operations function.
Our Benefits – Rewarding the people who keep our port moving
- Competitive pension: 8% employer contribution (min 4% employee)
- Life Assurance: 14× annual salary for pension scheme members (4× for non-members)
- Annual profit share bonus and performance related bonus
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): confidential counselling, stress & anxiety support, financial wellbeing guidance, plus access to our Wellbeing Hub
- On site Occupational Health Team and wellbeing support
- Paid leave, enhanced sick pay terms, and family friendly policies
- Volunteering days supporting our local community
- Perkbox retail discounts, wellbeing content and savings across hundreds of brands
- Access to development pathways, accredited training, and career progression opportunities across our port network
Role Overview
Key responsibilities
- Lead day-to-day and long-term operational planning to meet business and customer needs
- Drive efficiency through effective use of labour, equipment, systems and automation
- Manage budgets, control costs and deliver commercial performance, including identifying new revenue opportunities
- Oversee asset management, including maintenance, lifecycle planning and replacement
- Lead, develop and engage a high-performing operational workforce, fostering an inclusive culture
- Oversee workforce planning, recruitment, succession planning and employee relations
- Champion a strong safety culture, ensuring compliance with Health & Safety legislation and industry standards (including PMSC)
- Embed safe systems of work, risk management, continuous improvement and sustainability initiatives
- Build strong relationships with internal teams, customers, regulators and key stakeholders
- Work closely with the General Manager, representing Operations and deputising where required
What you need
- Proven experience leading operations in a complex, safety-critical environment
- Strong people leadership experience, including managing performance and change
- Commercial awareness with experience managing budgets and cost control
- Extensive knowledge of Health & Safety legislation and safe working practices
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Educated to degree level (or equivalent); advanced qualifications advantageous
- Background in ports, logistics, maritime, rail or haulage operations (port experience preferred)
- Experience working in unionised environments (desirable)
Shifts
Hours: 37.5hrs per week – Monday to Friday
Inclusion & Community
We are committed to creating an inclusive, welcoming workplace where everyone can thrive. We celebrate individual differences and believe that embracing diversity drives innovation, creativity, and stronger collaboration across our teams. As part of this commitment, we consider all qualified applicants and encourage open conversations about flexible working. We offer a supportive, community‑focused environment and are proud to hold Chartered Status from Women in Maritime.
The Recruitment Process - What is involved?
- Apply online – share your relevant experience and transferable skills by 21st June 2026.
- Anonymous shortlisting – all identifiable details are removed before hiring managers review applications.
- Interview & task – presentation + competency interview, w/c 29th June 2026.
- Outcome – we aim to update all candidates as soon as possible.
Hutchison Ports UK is able to sponsor skilled worker visas in cases where the role fits the requirements set out by the UK government. Please refer to the government website to understand the requirements needed. Hutchison Ports is committed to creating and developing an inclusive work environment with a diverse workforce. We will consider all qualified applicants and encourage discussion about flexible working opportunities. Apply Today Bring your commitment, teamwork and drive—and we’ll give you a career, not just a job.
1166 - Senior Manager Operations employer: Harwich International Port Limited
Hutchison Ports UK is an exceptional employer, offering a robust benefits package that prioritises your financial security and wellbeing, alongside ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Located at Harwich International Port, we foster a supportive and inclusive work culture, encouraging collaboration and innovation while championing safety and community engagement. Join us to not only advance your career but also to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic environment.
Contact Details:
Harwich International Port Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 1166 - Senior Manager Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with current employees at Harwich International Port. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching the company and its operations. Understand their values and how they align with your experience. This will help you showcase why you’re the perfect fit for the Senior Manager role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share examples of how you've led teams, managed budgets, and improved safety standards. Real-life examples will make your application stand out during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Harwich International Port.
We think you need these skills to ace 1166 - Senior Manager Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in operations, especially in safety-critical environments. We want to see how your skills align with our needs at Harwich International Port!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Senior Manager, your people leadership experience is crucial. Share specific examples of how you've led teams, managed performance, and fostered an inclusive culture. We love to see strong leaders in action!
Highlight Your Commercial Awareness:Don’t forget to mention your experience with budgets and cost control. We’re looking for someone who can drive efficiency and identify new revenue opportunities, so make sure to showcase your commercial savvy!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the recruitment process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harwich International Port Limited
✨Know Your Operations Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the operations of Harwich International Port. Understand their safety protocols, efficiency measures, and customer service strategies. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your People Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in previous roles. Highlight your experience in managing performance, fostering an inclusive culture, and driving change. Be ready to discuss specific situations where your leadership made a positive impact.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Awareness
Brush up on your understanding of budget management and cost control. Be prepared to discuss how you've identified new revenue opportunities in past roles. This will show that you can contribute to the financial strength of the operations function.
✨Communicate Effectively with Stakeholders
Think about your communication style and how it has helped you build relationships with various stakeholders. Prepare to share examples of how you've managed stakeholder expectations and collaborated with different teams to achieve operational goals.
