At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and innovate in Marine Services and Transportation for a vibrant community.
- Company: Join Orkney Islands Council, a community-focused organisation in a stunning location.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, relocation package, and excellent work-life balance.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive community and outstanding quality of life in Orkney.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in one of the UK's most beautiful places.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a passion for high-quality service delivery.
The predicted salary is between 100250 - 100250 £ per year.
35 hours per week, Permanent
Salary: £100,250 (Including Distant Islands Allowance)
Are you an experienced and visionary leader with a passion for delivering high quality services? Do you want to make a real difference in one of the most beautiful and community-focused parts of the UK? Orkney Islands Council is seeking an exceptional individual to join our Extended Corporate Leadership Team as Head of Marine Services and Transportation.
This is a strategic leadership role with responsibility for a diverse and dynamic portfolio including:
- Marine Services (the Harbour Authority, Pilotage, Towage Services, Pier Operations, Launch operations, Vessel Traffic Services and Local Lighthouse Authority).
- Internal Ferry Service operations and management of the ferry fleet.
- Marine business development, commercial success, the self-financing of all harbour activities and delivery of the Port Master Plan.
- Harbours and Marine Engineering Services.
- Marine and Airfield asset management (including ships, piers and airfields).
- Airfield and internal air service operations including membership of the Air Safety Review Board.
- Strategic Transportation (policy, bus and air contracts).
- The delivery of those public transport services which are a Council responsibility including lifeline services (air, bus and ferry).
Living and Working in Orkney
Orkney offers an outstanding quality of life. With stunning natural landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, and a strong sense of community, it’s no surprise that Orkney is regularly voted one of the best places to live in the UK. Our schools are excellent, our communities are welcoming, and our work-life balance is second to none.
If you’re ready to take on a rewarding leadership role in a unique and inspiring setting, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and help shape the future of Marine Services and Transportation in Orkney.
If you would like an informal discussion about the role, please contact Gareth Waterson, Director of Enterprise and Resources. gareth.waterson@orkney.gov.uk Tel: 01856 873535 , ext: 2521
Closing date for applications is 23:59 on Sunday 14 June 2026
Interviews will be held on w/c 29 June 2026
Interview expenses are payable for this post. Relocation package is available in line with Council Policy for this post.
Head of Marine Services and Transportation - ORK10404 employer: Orkney Islands Council
Orkney Islands Council is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead Marine Services and Transportation in one of the UK's most beautiful and community-focused regions. With a strong commitment to employee growth, a supportive work culture, and a focus on delivering high-quality services, you will find a rewarding career that allows you to make a real difference while enjoying an outstanding quality of life in Orkney. The Council also provides a relocation package and promotes a healthy work-life balance, making it an attractive place for visionary leaders.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Marine Services and Transportation - ORK10404
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the marine services and transportation sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Understand their challenges and think about how your experience can help them tackle these issues. This shows you're not just interested in any job, but specifically in making a difference at Orkney Islands Council.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Head of Marine Services and Transportation role. Highlight your leadership skills and past successes in similar positions. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and contributing to the community-focused mission of Orkney Islands Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Marine Services and Transportation - ORK10404
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in marine services and transportation. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your leadership abilities!
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We’re looking for someone who’s not just qualified but also genuinely excited about making a difference in Orkney’s marine services. Share your vision and what motivates you.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key achievements stand out. Remember, we want to understand your impact quickly!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Orkney Islands Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of marine services and transportation. Brush up on the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in the industry. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re not just a leader but also a knowledgeable expert.
✨Showcase Your Vision
As a strategic leader, it’s crucial to articulate your vision for the role. Think about how you can enhance marine services and transportation in Orkney. Prepare examples of how you’ve successfully implemented strategies in the past and how they could apply to this position.
✨Connect with the Community
Orkney is all about community, so be ready to discuss how you plan to engage with local stakeholders. Highlight any previous experience working with communities or in public service roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to making a positive impact in the area.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with thoughtful questions. Ask about the council's future plans for marine services, challenges they face, or how they measure success. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
