General Fleet Manager – Operations (Bulk Fleet)

Overview

As General Fleet Manager – Operations (Bulk Fleet), you lead the bulk fleet’s operational performance, safety, compliance, and efficiency. You’ll mentor a high-performing team and align fleet activities with strategic objectives, delivering reliable performance and strong Charterer relationships. Your role focuses on optimizing voyages, cargo operations, and cost discipline while driving a culture of safety and continuous improvement. This position offers impact through shaping fleet strategy and coordinating cross-functional efforts in a global shipping environment.

Responsibilities

• Oversee safe, compliant vessel operations and adherence to regulations and Charter Party terms
• Provide expert guidance on navigation, cargo operations, stowage, and mooring
• Communicate voyage instructions clearly to Masters via Operations Managers
• Monitor fleet performance and implement best practices aligned with company goals
• Oversee inspections and regulatory responses; support incident management
• Coordinate with crewing to ensure skilled, well-trained personnel
• Collaborate with commercial teams to optimize utilisation and secure opportunities
• Ensure timely freight payments and resolve disputes with commercial teams
• Develop risk mitigation strategies and manage Change (MOC) processes
• Drive cost-effective bunker procurement and manage agency appointments
• Approve cargo documentation per policies and legal requirements
• Promote safety culture and ensure adherence to QMS, ABAC, Ethical Trading, and AML policies
• Stay updated with industry regulations and update procedures accordingly
• Lead budgeting, performance tracking, and cross-functional alignment to meet KPIs
• Foster succession planning, mentorship, and adoption of digital tools for efficiency

Key requirements

• Extensive fleet operations experience with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role in global shipping (bulk)
• Ex-seafaring experience at Chief Officer or Master level is advantageous
• Deep expertise in bulk fleet operations, charter party terms, cargo operations, navigation, and compliance
• Proven ability to manage incidents, emergency response, and risk mitigation
• Strong communication skills and ability to convey complex information to diverse stakeholders
• Analytical capability to assess KPIs and drive fleet profitability and efficiency
• Hands-on experience with budgeting, variance analysis, and fleet P&L contributions
• Proven leadership skills, team development, collaboration, and change management
• Willingness to lead from the front and handle ambiguity in a dynamic environment
• Flexible with hours to ensure operational success

• leadership
• communication
• collaboration
• bulk fleet operations
• Charter Party terms
• cargo operations

…