Operations Execution Manager

A Container Terminal Execution Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of a container terminal, ensuring the efficient and smooth flow of cargo. This role involves overseeing various departments, managing resources, and optimizing processes to meet operational targets while adhering to safety and quality standards. As the Container Terminal Execution Manager within a greenfield setup, you will be responsible for the operational establishment of a new container terminal. This role requires a combination of strategic planning, operational expertise, financial acumen, Lean methodologies, customer focus, safety leadership, and the ability to build a high-performance team from the ground up. With a strong focus on stakeholder management, this role is responsible for optimizing terminal operations while building and maintaining positive relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders and requires exceptional interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to balance competing interests.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Operational Management

• Directs and coordinates all terminal operations, including vessel loading/unloading, yard management, gate operations, and equipment utilization.
• Monitors real-time performance metrics and takes corrective actions to optimize productivity and efficiency.
• Ensures adherence to operational procedures, safety guidelines, and quality standards.
• Manages and develops the terminals workforce, including shift scheduling, training, and performance evaluation.

Planning and Coordination

• Collaborates with planning departments to create and execute operational plans.
• Coordinates with shipping lines, customs, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth cargo flow.
• Manages equipment and resource allocation to optimize terminal capacity.
• Develops and implements contingency plans to address unforeseen challenges.

Performance Management & Continuous Improvement

• Sets and monitors key performance indicators (KPIs) for terminal operations.
• Identifies and eliminates waste (muda) in terminal operations through value stream mapping and process analysis.
• Implements Lean tools and techniques such as Kaizen, 5S, and pull systems.
• Fosters a continuous improvement culture throughout the organization.
• Leads Lean projects and initiatives to drive operational excellence.
• Develops standardized work processes and visual management systems.
• Analyzes operational data to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective actions.
• Implements continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and productivity.

Customer Service & Business Development

• Builds and maintains strong relationships with customers (shipping lines, freight forwarders).
• Resolves customer issues and complaints in a timely and effective manner.
• Ensures excellent customer service throughout the terminal operations.
• Develops a deep understanding of customer needs, expectations, and challenges.
• Implements customer-centric metrics and KPIs to measure performance.
• Builds strong relationships with customers and actively seeks feedback.
• Develops innovative solutions to improve customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• Conducting market research to determine terminal capacity and service offerings.
• Ensures timely and accurate communication with customers.
• Proactively addresses customer issues and complaints.

Stakeholder Management

• Identifies and maps key stakeholders, understanding their interests and influence.
• Develops and implements stakeholder engagement plans.
• Builds and maintains strong relationships with stakeholders, including shipping lines, customs authorities, port authorities, government agencies, local communities, and employees.
• Effectively communicates terminal plans, progress, and challenges to stakeholders.
• Manages stakeholder expectations and resolves conflicts.
• Leverages stakeholder relationships to achieve terminal objectives.

Safety and Security

• Implements and enforces strict safety protocols and procedures.
• Conducts regular safety inspections and training.
• Oversees security measures to protect cargo and terminal assets.
• Develops and implements a comprehensive safety management system.
• Conducts regular safety inspections and audits.
• Investigates accidents and incidents to identify root causes and implement preventive measures.
• Leads by example in demonstrating safe work practices.
• Provides safety training and education to all employees.
• Sets clear safety performance goals and monitors progress.
• Collaborates with safety committees and external safety experts.

Financial Management

• Develops and manages the terminals operating budget.
• Monitors and controls operational expenses, identifying cost-saving opportunities.
• Tracks key financial metrics (e.g., revenue, gross margin, operating profit) and provides regular reports.
• Conducts cost-benefit analyses for new equipment, technologies, or processes.
• Manages pricing strategies and revenue optimization.
• Collaborates with the finance department on financial forecasting and budgeting.

Desired Candidate Profile

• Bachelors degree in Terminal Operations, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or an equivalent degree combined with sufficient experience.
• Minimum of 8 years of container terminal operations experience, of which 4 years has been in an execution manager/supervisory role, with a strong focus on safety leadership, terminal optimization or other terminal operations.
• Previous experience in general cargo operations an added advantage.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• In-depth knowledge of container terminal equipment and systems, knowledge of semi/full automation operations an added advantage.
• Proficiency in using terminal operating systems (TOS) to drive daily operations and monitor operational KPIs.
• Strong analytical and data analysis skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Ideally Bachelors degree in logistics, supply chain management, or related field.