At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead digital transformation and innovation in maritime transport, driving sustainability and advanced technology integration.
- Company: 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: Join a diverse team committed to positive change and innovation in the Blue Economy.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on safety and innovation in the maritime industry while shaping the future.
- Qualifications: Engineering degree, leadership experience, and knowledge of sustainability and maritime technologies.
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. 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 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 reflected in our supportive culture, competitive benefits, and opportunities for career advancement, all while making a meaningful impact on global safety and operational excellence. Join us in shaping the future of maritime operations, where your ideas are valued and your contributions truly matter.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Engineering, Innovation & Sustainability, Maritime Transport
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn and attend maritime events. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Head of Engineering role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio or case studies that highlight your experience in digital transformation and sustainability initiatives. This will set you apart during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers, especially around innovation management and cross-functional collaboration.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining us at James Fisher. Make sure to tailor your application to reflect your passion for maritime transport and sustainability.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Engineering, Innovation & Sustainability, Maritime Transport
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’re looking for someone who can inspire and manage diverse teams effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Be sure to mention any previous work with digital transformation or decarbonisation strategies. We value candidates who can demonstrate their understanding of maritime technologies and sustainability principles.
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 Maritime Transport Division.
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.
✨Connect the Dots
Be ready to discuss how you would integrate advanced technologies into existing operations. Think about specific digital and decarbonisation strategies you could implement. This shows that you can think strategically and are prepared to tackle the challenges the company faces in optimising vessel operations.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the company's goals and challenges. Inquire about their current sustainability initiatives or how they envision the future of maritime transport. This not only demonstrates your interest but also positions you as a forward-thinking candidate who is eager to contribute to their vision.
