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Job Description

Our client is looking for aDirector, Port Operations which will be based in their Ft. Lauderdale, FL office. This is a hybrid, in-office role.  You’ll work in person (in office) Tuesday – Thursday each week. This position will manage required in port services for company vessels calling at unique ports across the globe. The incumbent will work with local service providers, and vendors, and coordinate with local authorities while considering local rules, regulations, and customs to ensure vessel operations are conducted timely and effectively within the set out budgetary constraints. This is a highly dynamic position, where made plans and arrangements are constantly subject to change and will require constant involvement and direction to drive the best outcome. The incumbent will drive vendor performance per company set standards and interact with the various departments within the organization to ensure their specific interests in these operations are validated and covered. This position will require strong interpersonal skills, to establish dependable partnerships for the benefit of the company’s success and profitability. 

Here’s a summary of what Princess is looking for in its Director, Port Operations. Is this you?

Responsibilities
  • Oversee general ship logistics (80 countries, 468 turns, and 2,029 transit calls annually). This is global, except for Asia, Australia/New Zealand and the South Pacific.
  • Manage three port managers and ensure they fulfill their job responsibilities by providing vision, motivation, and leadership toward the achievement of the port’s strategy and goals.
  • Maintain relationships with agencies worldwide, ensure performance, including adherence to contracts and ethics/compliance rules; replace agencies when necessary or financially beneficial. Conduct periodic surveys of ships to ensure performance.
  • Work to ensure port operations meet the plan and mitigate expense wherever possible.
  • Support finance in the updating of tariffs, creation of budgets, and modification of forecasts.
  • Negotiate with Port Authorities for berthing agreements, beneficial pricing, and necessary infrastructure improvements. Ensure all necessary berth reservations are in place.
  • Work with sourcing to identify possible cost savings opportunities and identify new potential agents and vendors.
  • Participate in the execution of waste offload process with internal departments, cruise vessels, and waste vendors.
  • Work with deployment team to solve current problems and plan for future voyages.
Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Studies, Business Administration, logistics, or equivalent experience.
  • Equivalent work experience in a related area, Senior Marine expert with shoreside expertise of a shipping company, incl. port operation
  • 10+ years’ experience in a management or leadership role with progressively more responsibility
  • Prior experience in port-related management and/or marine operations, preferably passenger vessel operations.
  • Professional level of knowledge in port operations and customer service equivalent to that which would be acquired through completing a bachelor’s degree.
  • Demonstration of directly related work experience, which has provided an equivalent breadth, and depth of knowledge may be considered instead of the educational requirement.
  • Ability to resolve complex customer service issues and respond effectively to sensitive inquiries and complaints, while meeting deadlines and maintaining attention to detail and accuracy. 
  • Ability to communicate, verbally and in writing, with all levels of employees, management, and customers.
  • Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, Outlook, Teams, and Excel. 
  • Experience in Port Operations (departmental) systems (preferred).
  • Familiar with worldwide vessel deployments, portside operations, and vessel operations. 
  • Ability to analyze operational results and data and create reports or create presentations.
  • This role normally requires four years of progressively responsible positions in port operations, customer services, or operations management. Demonstrated supervisory experience in a business environment is required.
  • Experience working across cultures and geographies with a commitment to recognizing inclusive viewpoints.
  • Collaborative and trustworthy to gain support and achieve results.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to manage smaller projects. 
  • Ability to multi-task and work within the confinement of time management. 
  • Effective in prioritization of tasks to support daily regional responsibilities while providing additional assistance to third-party vendors, direct reports, and other team members as required. 
  • Ability to work independently and virtually. 
  • Flexibility to travel on short notice and/or internationally as required.
  • Flexible schedule, as some work is required outside of normal work hours including weekends.
  • Travel expectations are about 25%.
What You Can Expect 
  • Cruise and Travel Privileges for You and Your Family
  • Health Benefits
  • 401(k) 
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan 
  • Training & Professional Development
  • Tuition & Professional Certification Reimbursement
  • Rewards & Incentives 
  • Base Salary Range: $119,900.00 to $161,800.00. Final base salary is directly related to each candidate's qualifications and experience uniquely.
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