At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead digital transformation and sustainability initiatives in maritime transport.
- Company: Join James Fisher, a global leader in engineering services with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive benefits, career growth opportunities, and a supportive culture.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on safety and innovation in the maritime industry.
- Qualifications: Engineering degree and proven leadership in maritime innovation 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 as well as working with the Product Managers to set up a roadmap for new products in the Fendercare business. Acting as a strategic link between engineering teams, operational stakeholders, and senior leadership, this role will oversee the entire innovation lifecycle - from establishing long-term roadmaps and managing external technology partnerships, to governing New Product Development (NPD) with rigour and compliance.
Leading the identification, development, and implementation of sustainability-driven strategies, incorporating digital and decarbonisation initiatives, to optimise vessel operations and product line growth. You will enhance operational safety, ensure regulatory alignment across complex maritime environments, and deliver measurable, long-term business value through innovation excellence. The role can be based anywhere in the UK within commutable distance to one of our offices in London, Aberdeen, Glasgow, Norwich or Barrow-in-Furness. There will be some international travel as well when required.
What you'll be doing:
- 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 academic to external suppliers and start-ups.
- Provide technical input for bids, new service development, and innovation funding.
- Drive NPD gate delivery with rigour, 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.
What we're looking for:
- Relevant engineering degree/qualification preferably in the maritime industry (i.e. naval architect, marine engineer).
- Proven leadership experience in engineering, innovation management, or digital transformation within the maritime sector is essential.
- Experience with vessel operations and emerging technologies relevant to tankships and fender products.
- Demonstrable strong knowledge of sustainability principles and ESG frameworks, with proven experience in 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.
Why join us?
- 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.
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.
Head of Engineering, Innovation & Sustainability, Maritime Transport employer: James Fisher and Sons
James Fisher is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and sustainability within the maritime transport sector. With competitive benefits, a strong commitment to employee growth, and a culture that values diverse ideas and contributions, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on global maritime operations while collaborating with cross-functional teams across the UK. Join us in shaping the future of maritime transport and driving progress through technology and expertise.
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! Reach out to people in the maritime industry, especially those who work at James Fisher. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the company’s recent projects and innovations. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about what we do in sustainability and digital transformation.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop us a quick thank-you email. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in our minds as we make decisions.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at James Fisher.
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, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves leading cross-functional teams, it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership experience. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the maritime sector, and how you’ve driven innovation and digital transformation.
Highlight Your Technical Expertise:We’re looking for someone with a strong understanding of maritime technologies and sustainability principles. Be sure to include any relevant qualifications, certifications, or experiences that showcase your technical know-how and commitment to ESG frameworks.
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We receive a high volume of applications, and sometimes they close early. Head over to our website and get your application in as soon as possible to avoid missing out on this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at James Fisher and Sons
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your engineering knowledge, especially in maritime technologies and sustainability principles. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in past roles, particularly in digital transformation and innovation management.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience leading cross-functional teams and managing complex projects. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you inspired your team to overcome them, as this role requires strong leadership and collaboration.
✨Understand the Company’s Vision
Familiarise yourself with James Fisher's One James Fisher strategy and their commitment to sustainability. Be prepared to discuss how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals in the maritime transport sector.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the company. Inquire about their current projects in digital transformation or sustainability initiatives, showing that you're keen to engage and contribute from day one.
