A leading player within the Container Shipping industry is recruiting for an Operations Director to be based at offices in London.

Reporting to the European Managing Director.

Main Purpose of the Role;

As part of the senior management team, this is a pivotal role, providing knowledge and extensive experience to assist in the decisions covering the Company's Operation Division in Europe. Be a mentor for senior operation managers within European offices and encouraging the best outcome for the business.

The Operation Director will be responsible for directing and overseeing across Europe all Operation activity covering; Equipment Control, Vessel Operations, Terminals/Port costs/ Feeder contracts, Logistics and that of Traffic & Document. It encompasses and requires a close relationship and that of the management of Company's own offices in Europe to ensure target expectations are met.

Managing and controlling all local offices located in U.K and Europe regarding;

1) Equipment Team

Efficient Equipment Control, Depot Contracts, Maintenance & Repair and cost saving.

2) Vessel Operations Centre

Stowage arrangements for company vessels in Europe Including Vessel Scheduling.

3) Terminal/ Feeder contract Team

Terminal / Port costs / Feeder contract negotiations, Marine service related issues and cost saving.

4) Logistics Team

Transportation (Rail,Truck,Barge) contract negotiation, efficient operation and cost saving.

5) Traffic & Document Team

Surcharge/ DEM/ DET/ Long Idling Control, Traffic/ Service Failure/ Documentation Guide, Working process control & improvement

Nurture and expand existing vendor relationships within the area of responsibility, identify, contact and develop new vendor relationships in the area of responsibility, in conjunction with the local operation team.

Oversee all operation activities across the designated region, in addition to identify, initiate, develop and expand commercial relationships with new and existing vendors in the region. Have a focus on maximizing cost savings, operational efficiencies to achieve the company's financial and business objectives.

Achieve/Exceed targets in allocated areas.

Experience and Knowledge Required;

• Extensive knowledge and experience working in the Container Shipping Industry at a senior level
• Experienced Manager, coach and mentor
• Proven Container Shipping Operational experience within Europe
• Experience of building and maintaining business relationships
• Change management experience
• Ability to speak another European language could be beneficial

Personal Behaviours and Attributes

• Strong leadership skills
• Dynamic and driven
• Approachable, adaptable and has clear understanding of business needs and objectives
• A skilled influencer. Able to gain trust and confidence
• Courage to challenge peers
• Able to find resolution in diplomatic way
• Commercially minded
• Diligent and persistent
• Practical problem solver
• Listening skills
• Able to work flexibly in line with business needs.
• Travel to meet vendors in Europe and further afield as necessary and required - 20%.
• Have strong communication skills, commercial values, as well as awareness of cultural considerations

Education

• Degree qualified or commensurate Shipping industry experience
• Beneficial to hold Chartered status either from Shipping, Terminal, Transport industries

For full details, please contact Willis Global - a leading Recruitment Consultancy for the Shipping & Logistics industry.