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: Enjoy competitive benefits, career growth, and a supportive culture.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with opportunities for international travel.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on safety and innovation in the maritime industry.
- Qualifications: Engineering degree and leadership experience in maritime innovation required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
About the Role
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.
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 vital 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.
If this sounds like the ideal next step in your career, then apply now! Due to the volume of applications, we receive for our vacancies, on occasion applications may close before the deadline, so please apply early to avoid disappointment.
At James Fisher and Sons, 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: JamesFisher
At James Fisher, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive culture that values innovation and collaboration. As the Head of Engineering, Innovation & Sustainability in Maritime Transport, you will have access to competitive benefits, opportunities for career growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in safety and sustainability within the maritime industry. With our commitment to diversity and a focus on employee development, you will thrive in an environment that encourages your ideas and contributions while working alongside talented professionals across the UK.
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 in engineering and innovation. Attend industry events or webinars to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or case studies showcasing your past projects in engineering and sustainability. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out directly to companies you admire, like us at James Fisher, and express your interest in potential roles. You never know what might come up!
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on industry trends! Follow maritime transport news and innovations in sustainability. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also show your passion for the field.
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 relevant experience in engineering, innovation, and sustainability. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Head of Engineering, Innovation & Sustainability.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of projects you've led or innovations you've implemented. This will help us understand the impact you've made in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. This ensures it reaches the right people and gives you the best chance of standing out in the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at JamesFisher
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your engineering knowledge, especially in maritime technologies and sustainability principles. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the role's focus on digital transformation and decarbonisation.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led cross-functional teams and managed complex projects. Highlight your ability to inspire collaboration and drive innovation, as this role requires strong leadership in a multi-disciplinary environment.
✨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 you can contribute to their goals and enhance operational safety and efficiency through innovative solutions.
✨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.
