Job title of Permanent Recruitment: Director of Crewing Operations
Recruitment Type:Permanent Recruitment
Business Type: Vessel owner with an international footprint
Location: Dubai
Key Stakeholders: Recruitment Coordinator, Senior Director - Operations and Director Operations
Faststream Recruitment Consultant:Robert Legg
A global vessel owner with an international footprint needed to appoint a Director of Crewing Operations to lead its worldwide crewing function.
Based in Dubai with global responsibility, the role required an experienced leader capable of driving operational improvements, leading an international team remotely, and influencing stakeholders across the business.
Having previously partnered successfully with Faststream in the US, the client engaged Robert Legg to support this strategic appointment.
The Challenge
Finding the right individual presented several challenges.
The role was based in Dubai during a period when global geopolitical uncertainty made international relocation particularly difficult. The combination of a specialist leadership position, a competitive talent market and a challenging location significantly narrowed the available talent pool.
Beyond technical expertise, the successful candidate needed to be an exceptional people leader. They would be responsible for managing remote teams across multiple locations, leading organisational change, handling difficult conversations with confidence and inspiring teams from a distance, while building strong relationships with senior stakeholders throughout the business.
Although the requirement was not an immediate emergency, the client needed an efficient and thorough search that would identify the very best talent available.
Our Solution
Robert Legg worked closely with the client to develop a tailored search strategy, beginning with a detailed consultation to fully understand the technical requirements, leadership expectations and cultural fit needed for long-term success.
The recruitment process included:
A comprehensive market mapping exercise to identify suitable global talent.
Targeted search and proactive outreach using Faststream's specialist network and LinkedIn.
In-depth screening interviews assessing leadership capability, relocation suitability and long-term career motivations.
Presentation of a carefully selected shortlist of high-quality candidates.
Coordination of the interview process and ongoing feedback management.
Extensive offer management, navigating complex discussions around remote onboarding, future relocation plans and tax considerations across different locations.
Continued support throughout preboarding, onboarding and relocation planning, including regular follow-up after the candidate joined the business.
By acting as a trusted recruitment partner throughout the process, Robert ensured both client and candidate remained engaged during what was a complex international hire.
The Results
The client successfully appointed an experienced Director of Crewing Operations who has settled into the business quickly and is already delivering strategic improvements across the global crewing function.
Faststream's specialist market knowledge, extensive network and proactive candidate management enabled the client to secure an outstanding hire in a highly competitive niche market.
Key Outcomes
Successfully filled a critical global leadership position.
Delivered access to specialist talent in a challenging international market.
Managed a complex international offer and relocation process.
Supported a smooth onboarding experience, helping the successful candidate transition effectively into the role.
Looking to Strengthen Your Leadership Team?
Finding senior maritime professionals requires specialist market knowledge, an extensive global network and a consultative recruitment approach.
Whether you're hiring for a critical leadership position or building your wider team, Faststream can help you secure the right talent.
Speak to our permanent recruitment specialists today to discuss your hiring needs.
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