Marine Services General Manager in England

The Role

A leading marine services and logistics company is seeking a Marine Services General Manager to lead and grow its marine operations across the UK and international projects. This is a senior, strategic, and hands-on role for an experienced shipping professional with a proven track record in project cargo, fleet management, and port operations.

The successful candidate will act as the central point of contact for all marine operations, managing day-to-day vessel operations, overseeing port services, and maintaining strong relationships with clients, shipowners, and port stakeholders. They will also play a key role in business development, contract negotiations, and fleet expansion.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee day-to-day marine operations
• Scheduling vessel maintenance, and port activity, ensuring compliance with safety standards, local laws, and international regulations.
• Manage and develop the marine operations team across liner services and UK-wide projects.
• Build and maintain strong client and stakeholder relationships, supporting escalations and negotiating contracts.
• Oversee budgeting, resource allocation, and financial management for marine operations.
• Manage the company’s barge and vessel fleet, including planning for new vessels.
• Identify opportunities for strategic growth and expansion of the business.
• Regularly report to senior leadership on operational performance and areas for improvement.

Requirements

• MICS Shipbroker qualification or Marine Degree.
• Minimum 15 years’ experience in commercial shipping with operational and management responsibility.
• Experience in project cargo chartering (barges, tugs, heavy-lift vessels), terminal management, and construction project cargo.
• Proven team management experience.
• Strong knowledge of vessel operations, BIMCO charter parties, port operations, and project shipping networks.
• Understanding of lashing and securing project cargoes.
• Valid UK driving licence and own vehicle
• Seagoing experience (3rd Officer or higher) (Desirable)
• BIFA Freight or Customs Clearance qualifications (Desirable)
• Experience in ship husbandry, ship management, marine contracting, and international logistics (Desirable)
• Exposure to naval architecture basics and UK/European OOG road haulage (Desirable)

Package & Benefits

• Competitive salary (DOE) + bonus & relocation package (if applicable).
• 25 days’ annual leave + 8 bank holidays.
• Enhanced employer pension contributions.
• Private medical insurance & income protection.
• Performance-related pay scheme.
• Flexible/hybrid working.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Career development and training support