West Africa Container Terminal Nigeria Limited (WACT) is a joint venture company of A.P. Moller – Maersk A/S operated by APM Terminals and situated in Onne, Nigeria, strategically located as the closest gateway to the fast growing Eastern Nigerian markets.

WACT is looking for a Chief Operations Officer, whose key role will be to provide leadership and direction for the operations, technical & IT functions of the Terminal This positions will also be responsible for ensuring optimum productivity with the highest safety standards, providing excellent customer service to the shipping community and key stakeholders while maintaining a cost efficient operation.

The position offers

The opportunity to acquire skills and knowledge in the following areas:

* Extensive general management experience in a container terminal.
* Project management experience.
* Experience in strategy development.

Job Responsibilities

* This position will be responsible for the execution of the operational strategy and the continuous improvement of the operational performance at the terminal.
* The incumbent is expected to provide significant input to the terminal’s business strategy.
* The incumbent will be the predominant authority in defining operational plans and shall be a key member responsible for the achievement of results in a number of functional areas which complement each other.
* The position will drive subordinated positions (and functions) to efforts of enhancing existing operations methods of the terminal.
* The position is multi-dimensional.
* Provides the leadership and direction of the Terminal’s operations.
* Establishes and implements action plans for current and long range objectives, of the terminal’s operations and expansions.
* Leading role in the selection, negotiation and finalization of agreements with suppliers & customers. Where appropriate is responsible for execution and maintenance of SLA’s.
* Participates as a key member of any steering committee for new projects, initiatives, and plays a leading role in defining project management strategies and will be responsible for the deliverables of related project plans.
* Provides a working strategy to the IT department, supports and contributes to development in technology & systems as applicable to improve efficiencies in cost, productivity & customer service.
* Ensures compliance with HSSE policies & procedures.
* Enforces safe working practices are enforced to ensure lost time injuries are kept to a minimum.
* Ensures a cost efficient operation where waste is minimized and production is enhanced through the effective implementation of Process Excellence and Technical Asset Management.
* Liaises closely with shipping companies, customs agents, trucking companies, Customs, port authorities, and other statutory authorities to ensure that their requirements are met.
* Liaises closely with vendors, suppliers, external consultants, etc to ensure that divergent deliverables are met as required by the terminal
* Responsible for setting and achieving the budget for the reporting functions.
* Responsible for ensuring that all managers and labor in the operation are trained in best operational practices. Manage employee performance issues including training, appraisals, discipline and grievances.
* Ensure that the terminal adheres to APM Terminals world standards for container terminal operations.
* Measure and monitor performance against critical criteria, policy and guidelines established by APM Terminals.
* Liaise with labor unions (where applicable) and on behalf of APMT take part in long-term contract negotiations with labor unions. Ensure industrial harmony with the workforce.
Experience & Profile

* The position requires a Professional Standard of Knowledge to lead teams through functional/general expertise in the Operations and associated functions as well as broad management skills.
* University degree in logistics, maritime and port, or process/industrial engineering or a marine qualification at least at Masters 1st Class level (including command of a vessel).
* Post graduate studies in Port and/or Terminal Management, or related business studies.
* Minimum 6-8 years in operations management roles in a container terminal.
* Minimum 3 years experience handling technical issues & negotiations with third parties.
* Proven experience in cost and productivity optimization (through process optimization) as well as design and implementation of new operation procedures.
* Strong understanding of the role of IT in a container terminal environment.
* Basic experience in finance related matters, setting budgets and reporting against financial objectives.
* Extensive knowledge of APM Terminals operational practices.
* Project management skills would be preferred.
* Good communication skills including ability to communicate across the organization.
* Excellent analytical skills.
* Effective negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
* Fluent in English and local language (where applicable).
* Ability to provide leadership, obtain cooperation and promote a team environment to meet objectives.
* Prior experience in Africa and specifically West Africa would be preferable.
* Ability to successfully work with multi racial / cultural work force.

For further information kindly contact Martin Jacob on e-mail [email protected]

Contact information:

[email protected]

Apply now

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