Senior Operations Manager - US Ship

Under the supervision of your manager, the Senior Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations within their department or team, ensuring that objectives are met efficiently and in alignment with company goals. This role involves managing and developing a team, monitoring performance, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies and procedures. The Senior Operations Manager will work closely with their direct manager to implement strategies, handle resource allocation, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. They will also serve as a key point of contact between front-line employees and upper management, facilitating communication and ensuring smooth workflow. Additional responsibilities include supporting the budgeting process, contributing to performance reviews, and ensuring a positive and productive work environment.

Cost control & compliance

• Ensure the timely processing and ongoing accuracy of all billing activities.
• Monitor and manage costs related to employee overtime, mileage reimbursements, traffic fines, and other incidental expenses.
• Analyze trends and variances in recurring cost categories and implement cost-control measures to minimize unnecessary spending.
• Establish and enforce policies to reduce avoidable fines, penalties, and overuse of OT.

Safety

• Monitor and track safety key performance indicators (KPIs) and training compliance. 
• Organize and lead safety meetings to promote awareness and best practices.
• Ensure adherence to company safety policies and regulations.
• Prepare and submit safety reports as required.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures and guidelines to maintain a safe and environmentally responsible work environment.
• Ensure all personnel complete and comply with mandatory regulatory training requirements.
• Maintain a professional office environment, ensuring it is well-prepared for visits from colleagues, customers, government officials, stevedores, port managers and other visitors.
• Support and enforce the NLI safety program, ensuring full compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations. Ensure proper safety gear is available to all team members. 

People & Workplace 

• Participate in the recruitment process, including interviewing and approving new hires.
• Manage employee turnover and retention efforts.
• Handle all aspects of employee management, including hiring, training, terminations, and disciplinary actions, with the assistance of management and HR as needed.
• Maintain regular communication with principals, customers, the Port Authority, and relevant government agencies.
• Collaborate effectively with team members to achieve shared objectives and foster a positive, cooperative work environment.
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to achieving goals, maintaining a sense of urgency, overcoming challenges, and efficiently resolving issues, even when faced with obstacles.
• Board vessels for operational purposes, training purposes, and relationship purposes.
• Coordinate the activities of assigned staff to ensure timely and accurate vessel turnaround in accordance with customer expectations and contractual agreements.
• Prepare and distribute weekend and/or night duty schedules to staff in a timely manner.
• Ensure assigned staff are trained to accurately calculate and present Port Disbursement forecasts to clients within established timeframes.
• Ensure staff members receive appropriate training in areas such as maritime operations, language skills, and industry-specific courses.
• Ensure all training activities are documented and completed within the timelines set by NLI policy.

Sales/Growth

• Build and maintain relationships within the local community.
• Actively participate in local maritime organizations – Propeller Club, etc. (specific organizations will vary based on Port and commodity).
• Identify and recommend local opportunities, discussing relevant information with your supervisor.
• Communicate regularly with principals, customers, the Port Authority, Terminals and relevant government agencies.
• Participate in sales calls and events related to customer accounts.

Quality of delivery 

• Ensure verbal and written communications are delivered accurately, timely, and completely.
• Provide training and guidance as needed to the local port office to ensure the company standard of quality is delivered.
• Oversee the accurate and proper filing of vessel and customer documents in accordance with all regulatory agencies and corporate policies.

Cost control & compliance

• Monitor and manage costs related to employee overtime, mileage reimbursements, traffic fines, and other incidental expenses.
• Analyze trends and variances in recurring cost categories and implement cost-control measures to minimize unnecessary spending.
• Establish and enforce policies to reduce avoidable fines, penalties, and overuse of OT.

 Misc

• Abide by company HSEQ policies and procedures. 
• This job description is not exhaustive; additional duties may be assigned as needed. 
• This role may evolve in response to changes in industry practices and technological advancements.

Education / Experience: 

• A combination of relevant education (e.g., degree, certifications) and hands-on experience is preferred. 
• High School diploma or GED required, bachelor’s degree in business, Maritime, or related field desirable. 
• A minimum of three (3) years of relevant experience in the Maritime Industry is desirable. 
• Minimum of two (2) years management experience required.

 Competencies:

• As part of our commitment to collaboration and team performance, this role is expected to be performed fully onsite at the assigned office.
• Proficient in using computer software and applications, with a strong ability to quickly adapt to new technologies and tools.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with tight deadlines.
• Skilled at adapting quickly to shifting priorities and delivering both short-term analytics and long-term projects.
• Strong communication and leadership abilities are essential.
• Comfortable collaborating with in-office and remote teams at all levels to gather necessary information.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and efficient in managing tasks.
• Team-oriented with the ability to lead, listen, and influence when appropriate.
• Leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to plan and prioritize meeting deadlines and achieving strategic goals.
• Strong conflict resolution and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence others effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to perform and deliver results under pressure.
• Ability to collaborate across multiple departmental functions.
• Self-directed, yet team focused and results oriented.
• Ability to travel regionally and internationally as required.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and accident-free motor vehicle record.
• Must be ablet o provide and maintain automobile insurance according to state laws.
• Must be able to obtain a Transportation Workers Identification Card (TWIC), within 90 days of hire.
• Must have reliable and consistent transportation, as approved by terminals/ports.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule based on business needs, including days, nights, weekends, and some holidays.

• This position involves a combination of office-based work and shipboard duties, which may include time aboard vessels at dock.
• While in the office, work is typically performed in a climate-controlled environment with standard office equipment.
• While aboard vessels, employees may be exposed to varying weather conditions, confined spaces, moving machinery, and potentially hazardous materials.
• May require climbing ladders, walking on uneven or slippery surfaces, and working in elevated or enclosed areas.
• Must be able to lift and carry equipment or supplies up to 25 pounds as needed.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including but not limited to hard hats, safety footwear, gloves, and life vests, must be worn as required by company policy and maritime regulations. The required PPE will be organized by your supervisor.
• Compliance with all maritime safety regulations—including U.S. Coast Guard, OSHA, and company protocols—is required. Participation in safety drills, emergency response training, and regular safety briefings are mandatory.