General Manager (Ship Agency)

Roles & Responsibilities

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced General Manager to lead the overall commercial and operational performance of a ship agency business. The successful candidate will be responsible for business growth, principal and client relationships, service delivery, financial performance and team leadership.

This is a senior management position requiring extensive ship agency experience, strong industry relationships and a proven ability to manage both commercial and operational functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the company’s business and commercial strategy.
• Lead day-to-day ship agency operations and ensure efficient handling of vessel calls.
• Identify new business opportunities and secure additional principals and agency appointments.
• Build and maintain relationships with shipowners, charterers, operators and other maritime stakeholders.
• Oversee service delivery and ensure clients receive timely, reliable and cost-effective support.
• Lead negotiations for agency agreements, service contracts and commercial proposals.
• Monitor revenue, profitability, operating costs and overall business performance.
• Prepare annual budgets, business forecasts and management reports.
• Review pro forma and final disbursement accounts to ensure accuracy and timely submission.
• Ensure compliance with port regulations, company procedures and applicable maritime requirements.
• Oversee vendor selection, contract negotiations and service-provider performance.
• Lead, mentor and develop the commercial and operations teams.
• Establish performance targets and promote a strong service-oriented culture.
• Resolve operational escalations, commercial disputes and client concerns.
• Represent the company at client meetings, industry events and business-development activities.
• Provide regular strategic and operational updates to senior management.

Qualifications and Experience

• Degree or diploma in Maritime Studies, Shipping, Business or a related discipline.
• At least 10 years of relevant ship agency or port agency experience.
• Several years of experience in a senior leadership or management position.
• Strong understanding of vessel handling, port-clearance procedures and disbursement accounts.
• Proven record of developing business and managing key client or principal relationships.
• Established network within the maritime and shipping industry.
• Strong commercial, financial and operational management capabilities.
• Excellent negotiation, leadership and stakeholder-management skills.
• Able to make sound decisions and manage urgent matters under pressure.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and relevant ship agency management systems.
• Excellent written and spoken English.
• Willingness to respond to operational matters outside regular working hours when required.

Tell employers what skills you have

Negotiation
Supply Chain Operational Costing
Timely Delivery
Senior Executive Leadership
Financial Management
Commercial Contracts
Stay Calm Under Pressure
reports sales forecast
Liaison With Shipping Agents
Identifying New Business Opportunities
Regulatory Submission and Clearance
Business Strategy
B2B
Profitability
Developing Client Business
Ship Operations