Agency Manager – Ship Agency & Port Operations

We're Recruiting for Our Client

Our client, a leading player in the maritime and logistics sector, is looking for an experienced Agency Manager to lead its Ship Agency operations.

This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic leader with strong operational expertise, commercial acumen, and excellent stakeholder management skills. The successful candidate will oversee daily ship agency activities, lead a high-performing team, build strong relationships with principals and industry stakeholders, and ensure the delivery of exceptional service while maintaining full regulatory compliance.

Your Role

As the Agency Manager, you will be responsible for the overall management and performance of the Ship Agency department. You will lead a team of Shipping Agents and Shipping Executives, ensuring operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and business growth.

You will act as the primary liaison between the company, ship owners, principals, port authorities, and other maritime stakeholders while driving operational efficiency and continuous improvement across the department.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Lead, coach and develop a team of Shipping Agents and Shipping Executives.
• Monitor departmental performance and ensure operational targets and KPIs are achieved.
• Plan and allocate resources effectively to maximise operational efficiency.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance workflows and service delivery.
• Anticipate operational challenges and implement contingency plans to minimise disruptions.

Principal & Client Relationship Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for international principals and ship owners.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with principals, customers, and key industry stakeholders.
• Ensure company operations are aligned with principals' policies, procedures, and service expectations.
• Deliver high levels of customer satisfaction through proactive communication and service excellence.

Port & Shipping Operations

• Coordinate vessel calls with port authorities, terminal operators, customs authorities and other regulatory bodies.
• Ensure all vessel operations comply with local maritime regulations and statutory requirements.
• Oversee cargo operations and resolve operational issues promptly.
• Liaise with shipping lines, freight forwarders, hauliers, vessel owners, customers and service providers to ensure smooth operations.

Commercial & Business Development

• Analyse market trends and industry developments to identify new business opportunities.
• Support the development and implementation of business growth strategies.
• Strengthen relationships with existing clients while contributing to business development initiatives.
• Represent the company professionally within the maritime and logistics community.

Financial & Administrative Management

• Oversee billing processes for ship owners, shipping lines and clients.
• Ensure the accuracy of operational documentation and financial records.
• Review and analyse operational and management reports.
• Monitor departmental performance against budgets and business objectives.

Risk, Compliance & Continuous Improvement

• Ensure compliance with company policies, maritime regulations and risk management frameworks.
• Identify operational risks and implement appropriate mitigation measures.
• Promote best practices and continuous improvement across the department.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety and environmental standards.

What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate is a confident leader with extensive experience in ship agency or maritime operations, capable of managing complex operations while building lasting client relationships.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Commercially minded with strong business development capabilities.
• Outstanding organisational and planning skills.
• Strong analytical and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent problem-solving and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• High level of professionalism, integrity and accountability.
• Strong negotiation and relationship-building skills.
• Customer-focused with a commitment to operational excellence.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree or Diploma in Maritime Studies, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Management or a related field.
• Significant experience in Ship Agency, Shipping, Port Operations or Maritime Logistics.
• Previous experience in a leadership or management role is essential.
• Sound knowledge of port operations, maritime regulations and shipping documentation.
• Experience working with international shipping principals and vessel owners is highly desirable.

Why Join?

• Join a reputable and growing organisation within the maritime and logistics industry.
• Lead a highly experienced operational team.
• Work closely with international shipping principals and major industry stakeholders.
• Play a strategic role in shaping operational excellence and business growth.
• Enjoy excellent career development opportunities within a dynamic and international environment.