Ships Agent (Experienced or Trainee) Location: Medway and Sheerness - Kent About the Company Sheerness Port Services Ltd is wholly owned by Armac Shipping Services who are a leading independent Ship Agency for the Thames and Medway area. The agency is responsible for providing a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week on-call service to our clients to ensure the safe and efficient turnaround of their ships. About the Role: We are seeking a competent and proactive Ships Agent to join our team, either as an experienced colleague or a willing trainee. As a Ships Agent, you will be responsible for facilitating the smooth arrival, stay, and departure of ships at our port. You will act as a liaison between ship owners, port authorities, and various service providers to ensure efficient operations and timely turnaround of vessels. Key Responsibilities: Port Operations: Coordinate with port authorities and terminal operators to ensure timely berthing and departure of ships. Documentation: Prepare and process all necessary documentation, including customs clearance, cargo manifests, and port formalities. Logistics Coordination: Arrange for pilotage, tug assistance, and other necessary services for safe navigation of ships within port limits. Cargo Handling: Coordinate loading and unloading operations, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and efficient cargo handling practices. Communication: Serve as the primary point of contact for ship owners, captains, and other stakeholders, providing regular updates on vessel movements and port conditions, sometimes boarding vessels, where required. Problem Solving: Address any issues or delays promptly, working closely with relevant parties to find effective solutions and minimise disruptions to port operations. Customer Service: Provide exceptional service to clients, ensuring their needs and expectations are met throughout their port visit. Financial Management: Prepare invoices, monitor expenses, and ensure timely payment for services rendered. Regulatory Compliance: Stay informed about relevant regulations and industry standards, ensuring compliance with all legal and safety requirements. Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities for process optimisation and implement best practices to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Ships Agent/Trainee Requirements: Eligibility to work in the UK, without sponsorship Living with 30 miles of Sheerness Full, valid, clean driving license Experience of the shipping industry would be an advantage, but full training will be given to someone with enthusiasm and clear interest in a career in the shipping industry. Good communication skills, verbal and written. The ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines Effective time-management and the ability to manage own workload Competent user of Microsoft Office programs. Hours of Work: Mon- Fri standard office hours, plus additional work as required out of hours by the needs of the business. After a period of familiarisation, the successful candidate will be required to take their place within the out-of-hours Rota including every other weekend. Company Benefits: 20 days paid holiday rising to 25 after a successful probation period. Pension Scheme ADZN1_UKTJ