At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a skilled team to drive growth and operational excellence in a safety-critical environment.
- Company: Join Svitzer, a globally recognised leader in marine services with a rich history.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership development, and the chance to shape the future of the UK business.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive and innovative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic industry while fostering a culture of trust and collaboration.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and a strong background in strategic and operational management.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
Location: United Kingdom (can be based at one of the following locations: Southampton, Gravesend, Bristol, Liverpool, Felixstowe, Middlesbrough, Immingham)
For nearly two centuries, Svitzer has provided critical marine services to customers around the world. Operating a modern fleet and employing highly skilled maritime professionals, Svitzer supports the safe and efficient movement of vessels through some of the world’s busiest ports and waterways. As part of a global organisation serving international customers across the maritime industry, the UK business plays an important role in delivering regional and global strategic objectives.
This is a role for a leader who can successfully balance operational excellence, commercial growth, customer relationships, workforce engagement, and regulatory compliance within a complex, safety‑critical environment. The successful candidate will join a globally recognised organisation with a long‑standing reputation for delivering essential maritime services and will have the opportunity to shape the future performance and growth trajectory of the UK business.
The Opportunity
Reporting to the Managing Director – Europe, you will lead a highly skilled management team across a complex, safety‑critical operation. You will be responsible for shaping and delivering the UK business strategy, driving sustainable growth, maintaining operational excellence, and ensuring the highest standards of safety, compliance, and customer service. Equally important, you will be a visible and authentic leader who builds trust throughout the organisation, develops strong relationships with employees and union representatives, and creates an environment where people can perform at their best. Success in the role will require the ability to operate effectively at both strategic and operational levels, maintaining visibility across the business while driving long‑term value creation.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership
- Develop and execute the UK business strategy aligned with regional and global objectives.
- Identify opportunities for growth, innovation, operational improvement, and market expansion.
- Provide clear direction and leadership across all areas of the business.
- Lead organisational change and transformation initiatives where required.
- People Leadership
- Lead, motivate, and develop a high‑performing leadership team.
- Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, inclusion, and trust.
- Build strong relationships with employees, employee representatives, customers, and stakeholders.
- Act as a visible role model for Svitzer's values and leadership expectations.
- Operational Excellence
- Maintain oversight of operational performance across the UK business.
- Ensure safe, compliant, and efficient service delivery.
- Drive continuous improvement through effective performance management and operational discipline.
- Lead crisis management and business continuity activities when required.
Cluster Managing Director (UK) in Suffolk employer: Svitzer
Svitzer is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where leadership and operational excellence are at the forefront. With a commitment to employee development and a culture that values collaboration and trust, you will have the opportunity to shape the future of the UK business while working alongside highly skilled maritime professionals in some of the UK's busiest ports. The company's long-standing reputation in the maritime industry ensures that you will be part of a globally recognised organisation dedicated to safety and service excellence.
