RESPONSIBILITIES

• The Cargo / Operations Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising all cargo-related activities to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations across the fleet. This role acts as the key liaison between vessels, charterers, terminals, and internal stakeholders, optimizing cargo performance, supporting operational readiness, and upholding regulatory and company standards. The position also drives continuous improvement in resource planning, workflow efficiency, and customer satisfaction

DUTIES

• Cargo Operations: Provide operational guidance to master’s and senior officers for cargo readiness. Coordinate with Vessel Managers / Marine Superintendent to ensure cargo holds and associated equipment are ready and maintained for loading/discharging, including preparation, inspection, and post-discharge cleaning.

• Attend vessels in port as required and oversee loading, stowage, securing and discharge of cargo in line with charter party agreements and company procedures. Monitor cargo condition, segregation, and securing during voyages

• Documentation & Compliance: Ensure accuracy and timely issuance of bills of lading, cargo manifests, statements of facts, and protest letters. Maintain compliance with SOLAS, MARPOL, ISM, ISPS, MLC, and other international regulations. Coordinate vetting inspections (Charterers, Terminal, Owners, RightShip) and ensure prompt close-out of findings. Handle terminal / charterers letters, reports, and official correspondence necessary to fulfil obligations under the ISM Code, SMS, and relevant ISO standards.

• Coordination & Communication: Act as the primary point of contact for charterers, terminals, port agents, clients, brokers, and third-party providers regarding cargo and vessel operations. Maintain continuous communication with stakeholders to ensure alignment on voyage orders, vessel itineraries, and cargo operations. Attend vessels as required for operational readiness, compliance, and performance monitoring. Collaborate with the Legal Department to identify and mitigate risks related to cargo and vessel operations.

• HSSEQ & Risk Management: Promote safety culture and adherence to company HSSEQ policies during cargo and vessel operations. Identify operational risks and implement preventive measures. Support incident investigations and corrective action planning. Ensure operational compliance with internal procedures and regulatory frameworks; contribute to continuous improvement of safety and quality standards.

• Reporting & Performance: Monitor cargo-related costs and contribute to voyage performance analysis. Prepare operational summaries, KPI reports, and recommendations for continuous improvement. Oversee the effective allocation and use of operational resources, drive workflow improvements, and ensure alignment with organizational goals.

• Crewing & Training: Cooperate with the Crewing Department by participating in crew interviews, briefings, and debriefings. Act as Marine Superintendent Interface (MSI) when assigned based on fleet priorities.

AUTHORITY

• Make decisions and act on behalf of the company within the scope of duties defined under this role.

• Not permitted to sign financial commitments or contracts for the company or vessel owners.

• Exercise authority in accordance with the Company Authority Matrix.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCES

• Degree in Maritime Studies, Logistics, or equivalent professional experience.

• Master Mariner competence: Master’s seagoing experience is an advantage.

• Ship operations and management education and skills.

• Experience in Port operations, cargo planning, stowage and securing.

• Past port captaincy roles is an advantage.

• Strong knowledge of ISM Code, MLC, ISPS, SOLAS, and MARPOL requirements.

• In-depth understanding of customer vetting and clearance regimes.

• Experience in audits, inspections (e.g., RightShip, SIRE, CDI), and handling emergency response procedures is an advantage.

• Good leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills; able to coordinate with multiple departments.

• In-depth experience and competence with vessel operations, especially cargo operations and cargo holds cleaning matrixes and requirements.

• Technical expertise in cargo operations and regulatory compliance.

• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and resolve operational challenges.