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 innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive benefits, career growth opportunities, and a supportive, inclusive culture.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with opportunities for international travel.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on safety and sustainability in the maritime industry.
- Qualifications: Engineering degree and leadership experience in maritime innovation and digital transformation required.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
About the Role
Head of Engineering, Innovation & Sustainability - Maritime Transport
Full‑Time, Permanent
United Kingdom with travel
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.
Maritime Engineering & Innovation Leader (Sustainability) employer: Job Search Place Limited
At James Fisher, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and sustainability in the maritime sector. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our competitive benefits, inclusive culture, and opportunities for career advancement, all while making a meaningful impact on global maritime transport. Join us in driving digital transformation and decarbonisation initiatives that not only enhance operational safety but also contribute to a sustainable future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Maritime Engineering & Innovation Leader (Sustainability)
✨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! Prepare a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your past projects and achievements in engineering and innovation. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, this will help you stand out and demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to appear. Reach out directly to companies you admire, like James Fisher, and express your interest in working with them. A well-crafted email can go a long way in getting noticed.
✨Tip Number 4
Keep learning! Stay updated on the latest trends in maritime technology and sustainability. Consider taking online courses or attending workshops. This not only boosts your knowledge but also shows potential employers that you’re committed to continuous improvement.
We think you need these skills to ace Maritime Engineering & Innovation Leader (Sustainability)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in maritime engineering and sustainability. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a potential leader in our team, it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've successfully led cross-functional teams or managed complex projects in the maritime sector. We love to see that proactive spirit!
Highlight Innovation and Sustainability:This role is all about driving innovation and sustainability, so make sure to include any relevant projects or initiatives you've been involved in. We’re keen to hear about your experience with digital transformation and decarbonisation strategies.
Apply Early Through Our Website:Don’t wait until the last minute! We receive a lot of applications, and sometimes they close early. Head over to our website to submit your application as soon as you can. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Maritime Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your maritime engineering knowledge, especially around sustainability and digital transformation. Be ready to discuss specific technologies and strategies that can optimise vessel operations and support product line growth.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led cross-functional teams in the past. Highlight your experience in managing complex projects and driving innovation. This role is all about collaboration, so demonstrate your ability to inspire and engage others.
✨Understand the NPD Process
Familiarise yourself with the New Product Development lifecycle. Be prepared to discuss how you would govern this process and ensure compliance while integrating advanced technologies. Showing a clear understanding of this will set you apart.
✨Emphasise Sustainability Initiatives
Since sustainability is a key focus for this role, be ready to talk about your experience with ESG frameworks and sustainability-driven strategies. Share any relevant projects where you've implemented decarbonisation initiatives or improved operational safety.
