Operations Manager

POSITION SUMMARY The Operations Manager, Ops Support serves as the primary liaison between the terminal and Ocean Carrier, overseeing operational efficiencies, equipment management, and business development. This role is responsible for coordinating strategic vessel initiatives, optimizing labor management, and identifying growth opportunities in seafood exports and port services. The manager will also lead strategic initiatives to enhance operational performance, drive cost-saving measures, and expand the port’s market presence.ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSOperational Management & Coordination:Serve as the primary liaison between the terminal and Ocean Carrier for commercial and operational analytics, and process improvements.Coordinate and track idle hours, ensuring billing has oversight and efficient resource utilization.Oversee equipment repositioning, repairs, and operational decision-making.Coordinate vessel movements and coastal scheduling.Manage labor performance, ensuring efficient staffing in port terminals.Business Development & Market Expansion:Identify and develop new business opportunities for the port.Strengthen relationships with existing clients while building new partnerships, particularly in seafood exports.Expand the port’s market profile and explore new revenue streams.Research and assess market trends, identifying opportunities for service expansion and strategic partnerships.Strategic Planning & Growth Initiatives:Foster a culture of operational excellence and entrepreneurial growth within the port.Recommend and develop new service offerings, including ancillary businesses.Provide insights on product development, distribution, and promotional strategies.Support the enhancement of customer-facing digital platforms and web experiences.Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):Reduction in idle hours and improved equipment utilization.Successful implementation of cost-saving initiatives as outlined in the TSA.Growth in revenue and market share from new business opportunities.Enhanced operational efficiency and vessel turnaround times.Strengthened client relationships leading to increased seafood export volume.Effective labor management and performance improvements in PortsKNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIESPort and Terminal Operations: In-depth understanding of terminal operations, vessel scheduling, cargo handling, and logistics.Supply Chain & Transportation Management: Familiarity with shipping industry regulations, freight coordination, and intermodal logistics.Business Development & Sales: Knowledge of market expansion strategies, customer relationship management, and revenue growth.Financial Acumen: Understanding of cost control, budgeting, billing processes, and financial performance metrics.Labor Management: Awareness of workforce planning, union labor relations, and efficiency optimization.Regulatory Compliance: Knowledge of maritime regulations, environmental policies, and safety standards.Analytical & Problem-Solving: Ability to assess operational challenges, analyze data, and implement efficiency improvements.Project Management: Strong organizational skills to manage multiple initiatives, deadlines, and resource allocation.Negotiation & Relationship Management: Effective negotiation skills to establish partnerships and maintain client relationships.Communication & Leadership: Strong verbal and written communication skills to coordinate across teams and stakeholders.Strategic Thinking: Ability to identify growth opportunities and drive long-term business success.Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, operational analytics tools, and logistics management systems.Decision-Making: Ability to make sound operational and financial decisions under pressure.Adaptability: Capable of working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with changing priorities.Team Leadership: Ability to lead and motivate teams across multiple locations Attention to Detail: Ensuring billing accuracy oversight, equipment tracking, and performance monitoring.Customer Focus: Commitment to delivering high-quality service and maintaining strong client relationships.REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCEBachelors degree in business administration, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Maritime Operations, or a related field preferred.Equivalent experience in terminal operations, logistics, or transportation management may be considered in place of a formal degree.5+ years of experience in terminal operations, maritime logistics, transportation management, or a related industry.3+ years of leadership experience managing teams, coordinating operations, and driving efficiency improvements.Experience in business development and client relationship management, particularly in the seafood export or maritime industry.Proven track record of cost-saving initiatives and process optimization within a port or logistics environment.Familiarity with labor relations, unionized workforce management, and operational compliance is a plus.PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTSAbility to remain in a stationary position for extended periods of timeWork is performed in an office environment and requires the ability to operate standard office equipment and keyboards. Must have the ability to walk short distances, lift and small carry parcels, packages and other itemsThe physical demands listed are intended to provide a general overview of what will be required in the role and are not an exhaustive list of requirements. Keelson remains compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and will engage in the interactive process for all reasonable accommodation requests to successfully perform the duties of the positionEMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTSWillingness to submit to pre-employment background check and drug screeningCompliance with Keelson Drug Free Workplace PoliciesAbility to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC)

Created: 2025-07-15