Job Overview
The Fleet Manager is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of assigned vessels, including technical oversight, operational performance, and control of vessel operating expenditure (OPEX). The role serves as the main shore-based liaison between vessels, management, and external stakeholders.
Responsibilities and Duties
- Assume overall responsibility for the safe, efficient, and cost-effective management of assigned vessels.
- Ensure vessels operate in compliance with international regulations, Flag State, Classification Society, and Company management systems.
- Monitor vessel operational and technical performance, providing guidance and support to onboard senior officers.
- Oversee maintenance, repairs, dry-dockings, and implementation of planned maintenance programmes.
- Manage and control vessel OPEX budgets, ensuring expenditures remain within approved limits while maintaining operational reliability and safety standards.
- Support planning and execution of approved CAPEX projects, including equipment upgrades, retrofits, and vessel improvement initiatives.
- Review vessel reports, technical status, and performance indicators, initiating corrective actions where required.
- Act as the primary shore-based contact between vessels, owners, charterers, and internal departments.
- Coordinate with crewing, procurement, and operations teams to ensure effective vessel support.
- Manage vendors, shipyards, and service providers to achieve quality and cost efficiency.
- Support audits, inspections, and incident investigations.
- Provide regular fleet performance and budget reporting to management and escalate critical issues when necessary.
Qualifications
- Degree or Diploma in Marine Engineering, Nautical Studies, Maritime Studies, or related discipline.
- Seagoing experience as Chief Engineer, Master Mariner, or senior onboard officer preferred.
- Minimum 5-10 years experience in ship management, fleet operations, or technical vessel management.
- Experience overseeing vessel operations, maintenance, and dry-dockings.
- Good knowledge of maritime regulations including ISM Code, SOLAS, MARPOL, Flag State, and Class requirements.
- Experience managing vessel OPEX budgets exposure to CAPEX projects is an advantage.
- Ability to review operational and technical reports and implement corrective actions.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills with crews, owners, charterers, and vendors.
- Proficient in MS Office and fleet or planned maintenance systems.
- Willingness to travel for vessel visits and shipyard attendance when required.
