Director of Operations I

Expected Salary Range: $103,800 - $129,700 About us Metro Ports is an experienced terminal operator and stevedoring company with locations spanning across the country. For generations, we have consistently served the waterfront community through innovative solutions and processes. Our mission is to consistently deliver safe, efficient, innovative and environmentally responsible maritime operational solutions for our customers. Position Summary The Director of Operations I oversees cargo receiving and loadout operations across Wilmington’s on-terminal and off-terminal facilities. This leadership role ensures operational efficiency, safety compliance, and customer satisfaction while fostering a collaborative and performance-driven team culture. The director plays a key role in expanding Metro Ports’ presence within customer supply chains and driving continuous improvement across all handling activities. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Directs cargo receiving and loadout operations across Wilmington’s on-terminal and off-terminal facilities, setting priorities for safe and efficient execution while holding Operations Managers accountable for productivity, efficient use of labor and equipment, and profitability. Directs daily priorities including labor requisitions, cargo handling, facility cleanliness, and equipment safety. Directly manages Operations Managers and retains overall accountability for the supervision, performance, and conduct of union-represented employees through the management team. Hires and terminates staff in coordination with Human Resources. Leads employee development, supports team morale, and conducts performance evaluations. Promotes a positive team culture and emphasizes the strategic importance of each role. Encourages cross-training and open communication across the Wilmington team. Disseminates corporate communications effectively to local staff. Owns and improves the local safety program in collaboration with the Director of HSE. Monitors compliance with safety procedures and implements corrective actions when necessary. Ensures adherence to environmental regulations and reporting requirements. Ensures compliance with applicable union and non-union agreements and customer contracts. Ensures operator-level maintenance of all machinery and equipment. Establishes and implements local policies, goals, and procedures to meet organizational objectives. Reviews local workflows and updates procedures to improve consistency and efficiency. Develops written work processes for key functions and discourages siloed operations. Develops forecasts and budgets to support strategic planning. Approves purchase orders, supply requisitions, invoices, and timecards. Performance Goal: Achieve a 10% improvement in cargo handling efficiency and a 10% improvement in team engagement through process optimization and culture-building initiatives. Coordinates closely with the Regional Director of Operations and Terminal Manager to align operational priorities with corporate objectives. Engages proactively with customers, port staff, government agencies, lessors, brokers, and agents to address service needs and support regulatory compliance. Serves as a liaison with port officials, lessors, and regulatory agencies on local operational matters. Establishes local contacts to improve operational efficiency and collaboration. Collaborates with consultants and vendors to support operational needs. Monitors and reports on local market conditions, opportunities, and constraints. Represents Metro Ports at industry functions and meetings. Assists other operations with engineering, maintenance, or procedural issues. Performs other duties as assigned by the Regional Director of Operations. Work Schedule Works weekends and holidays as needed and remains available on call 24 hours a day for emergencies and operational continuity. Travels from Wilmington, NC, to Charleston, SC; Morehead City, NC; and Savannah, GA, as req…

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