Wolviston Management Services are delighted to be supporting our client in the appointment of an experienced and proactive Port Manager to lead the safe, efficient and compliant day-to-day operation of a busy port facility.
This is a pivotal leadership role with full responsibility for operational performance, people management, customer delivery and continuous improvement across all port activities. You will play a key role in ensuring the port operates to the highest standards of safety, service and efficiency while supporting commercial objectives and long-term growth.
The Role
Reporting into senior management, the Port Manager will provide visible, hands-on leadership across all port operations. You will take ownership of daily performance, ensuring safe systems of work, effective resource utilisation and a consistently high level of service for customers and stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and manage all day-to-day port operations, including vessel operations, cargo handling and resource allocation
Maintain operational continuity while balancing safety, customer requirements and commercial priorities
Optimise the utilisation of port assets, including plant, equipment, berths, cranes and storage areas
Ensure full compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations, including RAMS, permits, PPE and safe systems of work
Lead incident investigations, produce reports and implement corrective and preventative actions
Deliver daily and weekly operational briefings, toolbox talks and safety communications
Manage operational rosters, training, competence and performance across the workforce
Line manage the Assistant Port Manager, supervisors and operational teams
Support operational discussions with customers, agents, hauliers and service partners to ensure service level expectations are met
Oversee short- and medium-term resource planning and coordination
Produce operational reports, KPIs, performance updates and incident summaries
Identify and implement operational improvements and cost-efficiency initiatives
Undertake port operative duties when required, in line with competence and operational need
Manage crane positioning on the quayside and oversee lifting operations
Inspect and manage lifting accessories, ensuring faults are reported and rectified
Manage stock control, consumables ordering and stocktakes
Uphold site security and safety standards at all times About You
To succeed in this role, you will be an experienced operational leader with a strong background in port, terminal or heavy industrial environments. You will bring a hands-on approach, a strong safety mindset and the ability to lead and motivate multi-skilled teams.
You will also demonstrate:
Proven experience in a port, terminal or heavy industrial operational management role
Strong working knowledge of port operations, lifting operations and cargo handling
A clear commitment to health, safety and regulatory compliance
Confident people management skills with experience leading operational teams
Strong organisational, planning and problem-solving abilities
A practical, hands-on approach suited to a demanding operational environment
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders