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- Tasks: Lead and optimise global bulk fleet operations while ensuring safety and compliance.
- Company: Join a leading shipping company focused on bulk operations in Central London.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in maritime operations and mentor a high-performing team.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in fleet operations leadership; ex-seafaring experience is a plus.
- Other info: Office-based role in Central London, commuting required five days a week.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
General Fleet Manager – Operations (Bulk)
Join to apply for the General Fleet Manager – Operations (Bulk) role at stonefort marine talent
Location: Central London (no hybrid). Start: Next three months.
Contact
Mark Fortnum
mark.fortnum@stonefortmarine-talent.com
+44 (0) 7833 943130
Key Responsibilities And Primary Deliverables
- Marine Operations
- Ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of all vessels under your management, adhering to company policies, international regulations, industry standards, and Charter Party terms.
- Provide expert advice on navigation, cargo operations, stowage, and mooring to support optimal fleet performance.
- Guide Masters through Operations Managers, ensuring voyage instructions, Charter Party terms, and any special instructions are clearly communicated and understood.
- Monitor and drive fleet performance through ongoing assessment, implementation of best practices, and alignment with company objectives.
- Oversee inspections, ensuring timely and effective responses to regulatory authorities and charterers.
- Support incident and management response efforts in collaboration with relevant functional teams.
- Collaborate with crewing teams to ensure that vessels are manned with skilled and well-trained personnel.
- Commercial Operations
- Work with commercial teams to optimise fleet utilisation and capitalise on market opportunities.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with Charterers to enhance reputation and secure future business.
- Ensure timely receipt of freight and hire payments, resolving disputes or delays in coordination with commercial teams.
- Analyse market trends and operational data to identify efficiency improvements and revenue opportunities.
- Contribute to the development of commercial strategies to maximise profitability and fleet performance.
- Review and approve cost-effective bunker procurement plans.
- Provide strategic oversight of agency appointments and fee negotiations, ensuring cost efficiency and operational effectiveness.
- Approve cargo documentation, as needed, ensuring compliance with company policies and legal requirements.
- Safety, Compliance, Risk Management and Management of Change
- Actively promote and enforce the company safety culture and standards aboard all vessels, collaborating closely with QHSSE.
- Ownership for ensuring that operational activities strictly adhere to the company’s QMS, Anti-Bribery and Corruption, Ethical Trading, and Anti-Money Laundering policies and procedures, as well as international maritime regulations, codes, and standards.
- Manage risk assessments and the Management of Change (MOC) process for navigation, cargo, and operational changes.
- Develop and refine risk mitigation strategies, incorporating insights from incidents and near misses to enhance fleet safety and resilience.
- Ensure emergency plans are robust, regularly updated, and tested through scenario-based drills.
- Monitor and analyse risks across the fleet, providing strategic guidance to minimise exposure.
- Stay informed of industry regulations and best practices, ensuring fleet procedures are updated and operations align with emerging standards.
- Budget Management and Performance Accountability
- Oversee operational expenses, ensuring cost efficiency while maintaining safety and compliance standards.
- Collaborate with General Fleet Managers in technical and crewing functions to align financial and performance objectives for the fleet.
- Drive the achievement of fleet Outcomes and Key Performance Indicators through effective leadership and teamwork.
- Analyse fleet performance metrics regularly, addressing gaps and implementing strategies to optimise results.
- Team Management
- Empower and motivate your team by setting a clear vision for the bulk fleet and effectively communicating goals and expectations.
- Lead by example, demonstrating integrity and upholding the highest standards of professionalism and productivity.
- Foster cross-functional collaboration and teamwork to achieve organisational objectives.
- Ensure succession and contingency planning for key roles within your team to maintain operational continuity.
- Evaluate and develop direct reports, providing ongoing feedback, growth opportunities, and training to maximise their potential.
- Champion the adoption of digital tools and updating of workflows and processes required for fleet optimisation and efficiency.
Relevant Experience, Skills and Competencies
- Extensive experience in fleet operations, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within a global shipping company specialising in bulk operations. Ex‑seafaring experience at Chief Officer or Master level is highly advantageous.
- A degree in Shipping Operations is preferred but not mandatory for candidates with significant ex‑seafaring or equivalent industry experience.
- Deep expertise in bulk fleet operations, including optimising vessel performance, interpreting Charter Party terms, managing cargo operations, navigation, stowage, and ensuring compliance with international maritime regulations and standards.
- Proven effectiveness under pressure, with a strong record in incident management, emergency response, and implementing risk mitigation strategies.
- Exceptional communication skills, capable of conveying complex information clearly and effectively to diverse stakeholders.
- Highly skilled in analysing operational KPIs, identifying performance gaps, and driving fleet‑wide improvements to maximise fleet profitability and efficiency.
- Financially and commercially astute, with hands‑on experience in managing operational budgets, conducting variance analysis, and directly contributing to fleet P&L outcomes.
- Proven success in motivating and empowering teams to consistently deliver results, developing a culture of collaboration, accountability, continuous learning, and sustained high performance.
Location
- Central London (no hybrid)
- Must be able to commute to the office five days a week.
Seniority level
Director
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Management and Manufacturing
Industry
Maritime Transportation
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General Fleet Manager – Operations (Bulk) employer: stonefort marine talent
Contact Detail:
stonefort marine talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land General Fleet Manager – Operations (Bulk)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the shipping and maritime industry. Attend relevant conferences or seminars in Central London to meet potential colleagues and industry leaders who can provide insights and possibly refer you to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and regulations in bulk fleet operations. Being knowledgeable about current industry standards will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams and improved fleet performance in previous roles. Highlighting your leadership skills and operational achievements will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter and our values, especially regarding safety and compliance. Tailoring your conversation to align with our mission will show that you're a good cultural fit and genuinely interested in contributing to our success.
We think you need these skills to ace General Fleet Manager – Operations (Bulk)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in fleet operations, particularly in bulk shipping. Emphasise any leadership roles and specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to manage teams and optimise fleet performance.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that addresses the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Use specific examples from your past experience to illustrate how you meet the requirements, especially in areas like safety compliance and commercial operations.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills related to risk management, budget oversight, and team leadership. Mention any specific tools or methodologies you have used to enhance fleet efficiency and safety.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread your documents for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at stonefort marine talent
✨Know Your Fleet Operations
Make sure you have a solid understanding of fleet operations, especially in bulk shipping. Be prepared to discuss your experience with optimising vessel performance and managing cargo operations, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a General Fleet Manager, you'll need to showcase your leadership abilities. Think of examples where you've successfully motivated a team or managed a crisis. Highlight how you empower your team and foster collaboration.
✨Understand Compliance and Safety Standards
Familiarise yourself with international maritime regulations and safety standards. Be ready to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles and how you promote a safety culture within your team.
✨Prepare for Commercial Discussions
Since the role involves working closely with commercial teams, brush up on your knowledge of market trends and how to optimise fleet utilisation. Be prepared to discuss strategies you've implemented to enhance profitability and secure business relationships.
