At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovation and sustainability in maritime transport, driving digital transformation and new product development.
- Company: Join James Fisher, a global leader in engineering services with a focus on maritime operations.
- Benefits: Competitive benefits, career growth opportunities, and a supportive, inclusive culture.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to shaping the future of global maritime transport.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on safety and innovation in the maritime industry.
- Qualifications: Engineering degree, leadership experience, and knowledge of sustainability principles required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
The Head of Engineering, Innovation & Sustainability will play a pivotal role in driving the Maritime Transport Division's digital transformation and innovation through New Product Development. This position leads the identification, development and integration of advanced technologies and innovative maritime solutions that strengthen our operational capability and future-readiness, while working with Product Managers to set up a roadmap for new products in the Fendercare business.
As a strategic link between engineering teams, operational stakeholders and senior leadership, the role oversees the entire innovation lifecycle – from establishing long-term roadmaps and managing external technology partnerships to governing New Product Development (NPD) with rigor and compliance. It also leads the identification, development and implementation of sustainability-driven strategies, incorporating digital and decarbonisation initiatives to optimise vessel operations and product line growth, enhance operational safety, ensure regulatory alignment and deliver measurable, long-term business value through innovation excellence.
Responsibilities
- Drive digital transformation and decarbonisation across the division's fleet.
- Lead cross-functional collaboration and govern the NPD process.
- Identify, develop and implement digital and decarbonisation strategies to optimise vessel operations and support product line growth.
- Manage complex engineering projects, ensuring timely delivery aligned with strategic goals.
- Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement across the division.
- Develop product roadmap in partnership with Product Managers.
- Integrate advanced technologies to enhance operations, safety and navigation.
- Lead and inspire cross-functional teams across Engineering, Operations, IT and Compliance.
- Ensure collaboration with internal teams and external partners to maintain regulatory compliance and operational excellence.
- Develop and implement the division's digital strategy in line with organisational and Group-wide objectives.
- Establish prioritisation frameworks, roadmaps, tools and metrics to track delivery against KPIs.
- Identify and evaluate growth opportunities through emerging technologies and stakeholder feedback.
- Build a network of innovation partners from academia to external suppliers and start-ups.
- Provide technical input for bids, new service development and innovation funding.
- Drive NPD gate delivery with rigor, ensuring milestones are met on time and aligned with business objectives.
- Implement structured review processes to monitor progress, risks and resource allocation.
- Develop and implement a broader sustainability strategy aligned to James Fisher's sustainability goals.
Qualifications
- Relevant engineering degree or qualification, preferably in the maritime industry (e.g., naval architect, marine engineer).
- Proven leadership experience in engineering, innovation management or digital transformation within the maritime sector.
- Experience with vessel operations and emerging technologies relevant to tankships and fender products.
- Demonstrable strong knowledge of sustainability principles and ESG frameworks, with experience conducting ESG assessments, performing data analysis and developing ESG strategies aligned with recognised industry standards.
- Expertise in Industrial IoT and big data analytics within maritime environments.
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex, multi-disciplinary projects.
- Strong understanding of maritime technologies, regulatory frameworks and sustainability initiatives.
- Broad knowledge of marine systems, digital tools, asset and vessel management, risk and project management.
- Experience managing New Product Development (NPD) processes and delivering structured innovation programmes.
- Ability to build and maintain strong networks with academic partners, research bodies and technology suppliers.
- Strong leadership, communication, stakeholder engagement, strategic thinking and commercial acumen.
- Previous experience in building and managing teams.
Benefits
- Competitive benefits tailored to the division.
- Opportunities for career growth and visibility across the organisation.
- A supportive, inclusive culture that values your ideas and contributions.
- Work that truly makes a difference in safety, innovation and global capability.
About Us
James Fisher is a global engineering services company operating across Energy, Defence and Maritime Transport. With a strong heritage in maritime operations, we now deliver innovative solutions in challenging environments. Our One James Fisher strategy is focused on building a unified, sustainable business within the Blue Economy, driving progress through technology, expertise and collaboration.
With two centuries of maritime shipping and innovation, James Fisher is a trusted partner in the safe and efficient movement of the world's critical resources. As a market leader in ship-to-ship transfer and coastal shipping, we help customers protect people, cargo and infrastructure while shaping the future of global maritime transport.
We are committed to taking positive action on diversity and strongly encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and recognise that our success is driven by the talent and diversity of our workforce. To support an accessible and inclusive recruitment experience in the UK, we partner with Vercida.
Head of Engineering, Innovation & Sustainability, Maritime Transport in Barrow in Furness employer: James Fisher and Sons plc
At James Fisher, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and sustainability within the maritime transport sector. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through tailored career development opportunities and a supportive culture that values diverse ideas and contributions. Join us in making a meaningful impact on global maritime operations while enjoying competitive benefits and the chance to collaborate with leading experts in the field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Engineering, Innovation & Sustainability, Maritime Transport in Barrow in Furness
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the maritime industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, whether at a networking event or an interview, be ready to discuss your past projects and how they relate to innovation and sustainability in maritime transport. Bring your A-game and make it memorable!
✨Tip Number 3
Research the company! Before any interview, dive deep into what James Fisher is doing in terms of digital transformation and sustainability. Tailor your conversation to show how your experience aligns with their goals. It’ll show you’re genuinely interested and well-prepared.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After interviews or networking chats, shoot a quick thank-you email. Mention something specific from your conversation to jog their memory. It’s a simple way to keep you top of mind and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Engineering, Innovation & Sustainability, Maritime Transport in Barrow in Furness
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in engineering, innovation, and sustainability. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Head of Engineering, Innovation & Sustainability in Maritime Transport.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves leading cross-functional teams, don’t forget to include examples of your leadership experience. We love to see how you've inspired teams and managed complex projects in the maritime sector.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Be specific about your experience with digital transformation and decarbonisation strategies. We’re looking for candidates who can demonstrate a strong understanding of sustainability principles and emerging technologies relevant to our industry.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our innovative team!
How to prepare for a job interview at James Fisher and Sons plc
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in maritime technology and sustainability. Familiarise yourself with digital transformation strategies and how they apply to vessel operations. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but that you’re genuinely passionate about driving innovation in the maritime sector.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led cross-functional teams or managed complex engineering projects. Highlight your experience in New Product Development (NPD) and how you’ve fostered a culture of innovation. This is crucial for demonstrating that you can inspire and guide teams towards achieving strategic goals.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Sustainability
Since sustainability is a key focus for this role, be prepared to discuss your knowledge of ESG frameworks and how you've implemented sustainability-driven strategies in past roles. Share specific examples of how you've contributed to decarbonisation initiatives or optimised operations through innovative solutions.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the company’s goals and challenges. Inquire about their current digital strategy or how they envision the future of maritime transport. This not only shows your interest but also positions you as someone who thinks strategically about the industry.
