Operations Manager

Kotug Middle East DMCC is looking for an Operations Manager who will be responsible for overseeing daily operations, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and continuous improvement. This role requires ownership, work with a team, strategic planning, and effective stakeholder management to optimize resources, drive performance, and enhance service delivery. The Operations Manager provides leadership, mentoring, problem solving and support for Operations Department members, both ashore and at sea.

Duties and Responsibilities

1.Operational Management

• Oversee daily operations to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
• Develop and implement local Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to improve workflow.
• Monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and operational metrics to drive performance improvements.
• Establish objectives for individual Operations Department members. Leading and working with them to help achieve both the collective and their personal goals.
• Ensure all vessels operate in compliance with international maritime regulations (ISM, SOLAS, MARPOL), flag state requirements, and KOTUG standards
• Work closely with technical, crewing, and HSE departments to ensure vessel readiness and operational efficiency.
• Monitor Operational purchases and requisition in coordination with the Regional Office and procurement department.
• Ensure timely provision delivery to vessels with quality and quality assurance.
• Conduct regular meetings with clients, suppliers and stakeholders, including preparing agendas, data collection and minutes.
• Coordinate and inform the different departments timely and act as a point of contact with Clients.
• Act as a primary contact for vessel masters, providing support and escalating unresolved issues to the Management.
• Conduct weekly calls with vessel masters and summarize findings in reports.
• Monitor and report on vessel performance, fuel consumption, maintenance status, and operational KPIs.

2. Team Leadership & People Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop operational teams to enhance productivity.
• Foster a positive work environment and ensure effective communication across departments and vessels
• Manage employee scheduling, resource allocation, and workload balancing.
• Ensure compliance with Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) policies and regulations.

3. Strategy & Planning

• Develop and execute operational strategies aligned with company objectives.
• Collaborate with senior management to identify growth opportunities and process improvements.
• Forecast demand, plan resources, and manage budgets effectively.

4. Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure adherence to company policies, industry regulations, and legal requirements.
• Conduct vessel inspections and Marine audits; manage vetting processes and closeout of non-conformities.
• Report incidents or potential risks immediately and implement risk management strategies to mitigate operational risks. Maintain safety standards and workplace security.
• Monitor and report any new regulations affecting operations.
• Participate in HSE investigations and support data collection for compliance teams.

5. Process Improvement & Innovation

• Implement best practices and new technologies to enhance operations.
• Identify and register local vendors in collaboration with Kotug Purchasing/Finance teams.
• Recommend relevant purchases and propose improvements for regional office, transportation, or asset management.

6. Customer Service & Stakeholder Management

• Optimize service delivery to ensure high levels of customer satisfaction.
• Address customer complaints and operational issues proactively.
• Collaborate with suppliers, vendors, and partners to improve supply chain and procurement processes.
• Maintain availability for communication during emergencies, including outside working hours if necessary.
• Ensure accurate and Quality customer reporting by collecting and analyzing relevant information from different departments.
• Lead local content reporting and provide recommendations for improvement.

Qualifications

• A Master Mariner with Class 1 Certificate of Competency, or equivalent combination of experience and qualification.
• A minimum of 6 - 8 years of experience and at least 3 years’ experience in a supervisory position in a growing, complex organization.
• Excellent, proven interpersonal, verbal and written communications skills.
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task and work in a fast-paced office setting.
• Proven ability to cope with conflict, stress and crisis situations.
• Demonstrate the ability to share skills and knowledge with others.
• Demonstrable experience in a growing organization.
• Good knowledge of Class and other marine standards.
• Lead the achievement of quality and delivery of excellent performance in the company.
• Be creative in continuous improvement and fast resolution of challenges.

Certifications (Preferred):

• BOSIET / FOET (OPITO Certified)
• ISM/ISPS Internal Auditor
• DP Awareness or DP Operator Certificate (desirable)
• Incident Investigation / Root Cause Analysis Training