Container Terminal Planning Manager

Key Responsibilities

Operational Planning and Coordination:

1. Set up clear SOP for control room to cover all daily control room tasks.
2. Develop detailed operational plans for vessel schedules, berth allocation, and cargo handling activities.
3. Ensure collaboration with internal teams, shipping lines, port authorities, and logistics providers to optimize terminal operations.
4. Manage real-time adjustments to operational plans to address challenges such as delays, resource constraints, or weather disruptions.

Vessel and Berth Management:

1. Oversee vessel arrival schedules and coordinate berth assignments to meet operational priorities and service agreements.
2. Analyze stowage plans and optimize load/discharge sequences to reduce vessel turnaround times.
3. Assign optimal MHC and increase crane intensity.

Yard and Equipment Planning:

1. Monitor and manage yard capacity, ensuring optimal space utilization and efficient container flow.
2. Plan and allocate terminal equipment (MHC, RTG, ITV) to maximize operational efficiency.
3. Plan and allocate right resources and equipment for export and empty receive.
4. Ensure shuttling of containers planned for Customs inspections according to inspection schedule.

Gate Operations and Intermodal Connectivity:

1. Oversee gate planning to ensure the seamless entry and exit of containers.
2. Work with rail and truck operators to streamline intermodal transportation and minimize congestion.

Performance Monitoring and Continuous Improvement:

1. Develop all tools to set up daily operational meeting.
2. Track and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) such as vessel productivity, yard utilization, TTT, ITT, and gate efficiency.
3. Identify and resolve operational bottlenecks through continuous process improvement initiatives.
4. Conduct post-operation reviews and implement lessons learned for enhanced planning.

Team Leadership and Development:

1. Lead, manage, and develop a team of planners, fostering a culture of accountability and innovation.
2. Set up clear succession plan for planning team supervisors and coordinator.
3. Provide training and mentorship to enhance team capabilities and operational knowledge.
4. Facilitate clear communication and coordination across departments to align with terminal objectives.

Technology Utilization and Innovation:

1. Use advanced Terminal Operating Systems (TOS) and planning tools to optimize accuracy and efficiency.
2. Explore innovative technologies and predictive analytics to enhance planning processes.

Safety, Compliance, and Risk Management:

1. Ensure all planning activities adhere to safety regulations, environmental policies, and operational standards.
2. Conduct risk assessments and develop contingency plans to mitigate disruptions.
3. Promote a proactive safety culture and provide necessary training to the team.

Stakeholder Engagement:

1. Build and maintain strong communication and collaboration with all operational departments.
2. Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, port authorities, and other stakeholders.
3. Act as the primary point of contact for planning-related inquiries and coordination.

Qualifications and Requirements:

1. Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Maritime Studies.
2. Minimum of 7–10 years in container terminal operations, with at least 3–5 years in a managerial role.
3. Speaking English, Arabic, French is an advantage.
4. Professional in Terminal Operating Systems (TOS) and related tools; experience with ZODIAC is highly desirable.
5. Strategic thinking and planning.
6. Leadership and team management.
7. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
8. Effective communication and stakeholder management.
9. Commitment to safety and compliance standards.

Work Environment:

1. Based at the terminal, with frequent presence in outdoor operational areas.
2. Irregular hours may be required, including nights, weekends, and holidays, depending on operational needs.