General Manager, Business Development (Ship Management)

We are seeking a General Manager, Business Development to lead commercial growth and expand the ship-management portfolio. The successful candidate will develop relationships with shipowners, secure new management contracts and guide market expansion while working closely with technical and operational leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement business development strategies to grow the managed fleet and achieve commercial targets.

• Identify and pursue opportunities for technical management, crew management and related maritime services.

• Build relationships with shipowners, investors and key decision-makers across target markets.

• Lead the business development process from prospecting and proposal preparation through negotiation and contract signing.

• Structure commercial proposals and management fees in consultation with operational, finance and legal teams.

• Oversee tender submissions, client presentations and ship-management agreement negotiations.

• Work with technical and marine teams to assess prospective vessels and ensure proposed services meet client requirements.

• Manage strategic accounts, support contract renewals and identify opportunities to expand existing relationships.

• Coordinate the handover of new contracts to operational teams to support smooth vessel onboarding.

• Monitor market developments, competitor activity and client feedback to inform growth priorities.

• Lead and develop the business development team, setting targets and reviewing performance.

• Report on the sales pipeline, revenue forecasts and progress against growth objectives.

• Represent the business at industry events, conferences and client meetings.

Requirements

• Degree in Maritime Studies, Business, Engineering or a related discipline.

• At least 10 years of relevant maritime commercial or business development experience, including leadership responsibilities.

• Proven success in securing ship-management contracts and developing shipowner relationships.

• Strong understanding of technical management, crewing, vessel operations and ship-management agreements.

• Established industry network and experience engaging senior decision-makers across international markets.

• Strong commercial judgement, negotiation and financial analysis skills.

• Experience leading teams and managing complex tenders and contract negotiations.

• Ability to align commercial commitments with operational capabilities.

• Willing to travel internationally as required.