Group Shipping & Operations Manager

About the Role

We are seeking a proactive and hands-on Group Shipping & Operations Manager to oversee and optimize our shipping and logistics operations. This role is responsible for managing bulk and container shipments, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, and ensuring efficient, cost-effective, and compliant shipping processes.

The ideal candidate will lead the operations team, manage vessel chartering and freight optimization, liaise with terminal operators, and resolve operational issues to ensure smooth execution of shipments. This position requires strong operational oversight, negotiation skills, and the ability to drive process improvements to enhance efficiency and service reliability.

Key Responsibilities

• Shipping & Operations Management
• Oversee and manage all aspects of shipping operations, including bulk shipments and container shipments.
• Perform spot vessel chartering and freight optimization.
• Develop and implement shipping strategies to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of goods.
• Perform demurrage claim review and negotiation with customers, brokers, and ship owners.
• Coordinate with internal departments, such as Renewable Feedstock Supply, Renewable Feedstock Sales, and Treasury Team, to streamline shipping processes.
• Prepare shipping schedules, monitor shipment progress, and address any post-fixtures operational issues.
• Ensure compliance with shipping regulations, safety standards, and customer requirements.
• Team Leadership & Development
• Set up templates and process flow for a team can help streamline tasks, improve consistency, and enhance productivity.
• Solve problems by empowering and motivating the team member to excel.
• Provide leadership and direction to the operations team, fostering a positive work environment.
• Set Objective Key Results (“OKR”) for the team and ensure efficient execution of operational activities.
• Identify areas for process improvement, cost reduction, and increased customer satisfaction.
• Terminal Liaison and Bargaining
• Act as the primary point of contact for terminal operators and handle all communication related to shipping operations.
• Negotiate terms and conditions with terminals to optimize loading and unloading processes, storage facilities, and other terminal services.
• Collaborate with terminals to resolve any operational issues, such as equipment availability, cargo handling, or documentation requirements.
• Ad Hoc

Duties

• Undertake any other duties as required by reporting manager.

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years of experience in shipping, logistics, or operations management, preferably in the commodities or oil sector.
• Strong knowledge of shipping operations (both bulk and container), vessel chartering, freight negotiation, and demurrage management.
• Experience coordinating with internal teams (sales, supply, finance) and external stakeholders (terminals, brokers, ship owners).
• Proven ability to manage and lead a team, set objectives (OKRs), and drive process improvements.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills to liaise with terminals and resolve operational issues.
• Knowledge of shipping regulations, safety standards, and compliance requirements.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to cost optimization and service reliability.
• Proficiency with shipping and logistics software/tools, MS Office, and reporting systems.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple shipments simultaneously.