Business development manager (north sea energy & decommissioning)

Forth Ports is one of the UK’s leading and most progressive port operator groups, playing a vital role in connecting the UK with Europe and global markets. As a multimodal port owner and operator, we deliver innovative, high-quality port services that support a wide range of industries.

With a clear commitment to sustainability, we have pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2032 and Net Zero by 2042. We are actively driving the growth of the UK’s renewable energy sector, while supporting the transition to a lower-carbon economy.

This is a pivotal moment for both our business and the wider industry, making it an exciting time to join Forth Ports and be part of a forward-looking team shaping a more sustainable future

With assets across Scotland and a firm commitment to carbon neutrality by 2032 and Net Zero by 2042, we are uniquely positioned to support both the energy transition and the rapidly expanding decommissioning sector across Scotland and the wider North Sea.

This position is based in Leith but will work closely with our ports across Scotland and involve regular travel to our sites

About The Role

We are seeking a Business Development Manager to drive growth across North Sea Energy and Decommissioning, unlocking new revenue streams and building long-term value in one of the UK’s most dynamic and evolving markets.

This is a fantastic and rare opportunity to shape how ports support the next generation of offshore energy and the safe, efficient retirement of existing assets.

Key responsibillities:

• Lead commercial growth across North Sea energy activities, including rig mobilisation, dive support vessels, and offshore operations
• Capitalise on the booming Scottish decommissioning market, covering IMR, subsea removal, well intervention, and heavy lift projects
• Identify and secure opportunities across a wide vessel base—from construction and support vessels to heavy lift and intervention fleets
• Build strong, trusted relationships with ship owners, operators, and key industry players
• Develop compelling business cases with a clear focus on ROI and long-term value creation
• Provide market intelligence, competitor analysis, and strategic insight to inform decision-making
• Work collaboratively across port operations to optimise throughput, storage, and revenue generation
• Represent Forth Ports at industry events, positioning us at the forefront of the North Sea’s evolving energy landscape

Scotland is fast becoming a global hub for offshore energy transition and decommissioning expertise. With billions of pounds of projects in the pipeline across the North Sea, ports are playing a critical role in enabling:

• Offshore wind deployment
• Energy transition infrastructure
• Complex decommissioning programmes

What We’re Looking For

• Proven commercial experience within oil & gas, logistics, or offshore energy
• Strong understanding of UK decommissioning regulations and market dynamics
• Excellent commercial acumen with a focus on value optimisation and ROI
• A strategic thinker with the ability to spot and convert emerging opportunities
• A confident networker and ambassador, comfortable operating at industry level

Our Commitment

Safety, sustainability, and collaboration define everything we do. We are building a zero-harm culture while driving forward our ambitious ESG and Net Zero goals.

What Forth Ports can offer you:

At Forth Ports, our people are our priority, and we are committed to creating a flexible, open, and supportive working culture. As part of our team, you will enjoy:

• Competitive salary with regular reviews to recognise your performance and development

• Bonus scheme

• Generous annual leave entitlement

• Defined contribution pension scheme with up to 16.5% joint contribution plus life assurance at 4x salary

• Health promotion events and employee wellbeing initiatives to support your physical and mental wellbeing

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providing free, confidential 24/7 telephone support for you and your family

• On-site Occupational Health Team with access to professional support and referrals to services such as counselling, physiotherapy and free flu jabs

• GymFlex health club memberships offering discounted access to gyms including Nuffield Health, PureGym, Anytime Fitness, The Gym Group, and selected local gyms

• Cycle to Work scheme to support affordable, sustainable commuting

• On-site free parking available for all employees

• Attractive family-friendly policies, including enhanced maternity cover

• Employee discount platform providing savings on UK-wide restaurants, retail, car rentals, days out, and holidays 

  We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability status. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to provide support

  We value diversity and inclusivity, and we are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and will consider all applications for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability status.

  As a signatory to the Armed Forces Covenant, we are committed to ensuring that members of the Armed Forces community are treated fairly and are not disadvantaged in their civilian careers because of their service.

  We welcome applications from veterans, reservists, cadet force adult volunteers, and military spouses/partners, and we actively support flexible and inclusive recruitment practices.

Required Criteria

• Substantial experience and credibility in a logistics-focused position within the Oil and Gas sector.
• Excellent commercial acumen - strong focus on ROI, cost management, and value optimisation.
• Strong knowledge of UK decommissioning regulations, licensing processes, and engagement with regulatory bodies.
• Excellent networking skills - active participation in industry forums, conferences, and professional networks relevant to decommissioning.
• Full UK working rights and UK driving licence are essential

Skills Needed

About The Company

Over our 50 years of experience we have witnessed our ports grow to become important assets to support and deliver growth both for the UK and local economies.

The growth impact has been achieved due to the continued investments in our infrastructure, making sure that our ports are able to continually develop their services and support the growth of many industries.

Our people have played a significant role. They have delivered the highest quality of service through their expertise, loyalty and flexibility and, without them, we could not have built the strong reputation and the long term agreements with many customers that we have today.

Company Culture

Welcome to Forth Ports Careers. As a leading port operator, we employ over 1,100 people across our ports in Scotland and the Port of Tilbury in London.

A career in a port business is very rewarding. There is real variety within each role and significant opportunities for promotion and career development. Don’t just take our word for it; view the “Some of our People” section and the video below to gain insight into the kinds of jobs our employees do, how they’ve grown with us, and what motivates them each day.

The port business can be seen as a barometer for the economy and this drives us to be adaptable and fast paced as we identify new business opportunities.

Company Benefits

We are committed to creating a positive working culture for all employees, as well as a good work-life balance.

Here are just some of the benefits of working for Forth Ports.

Vacation, Paid time off, Paid sick days, Retirement plan and/or pension, Employee discounts, Gym membership or wellness programs, Cycle to work, Competitive salary, Employee Assistance Scheme

Salary

Not disclosed