Senior Shipping Operator (Tankers)

Role Overview

We are seeking a Senior Shipping Operator to manage tanker voyage operations from fixture confirmation through completion. The successful candidate will coordinate with shipowners, charterers, vessel teams and service providers to ensure efficient voyage execution, cost control and compliance with contractual requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily post-fixture operations for assigned tanker vessels and voyages.

• Review fixture recaps and charter party terms, identifying operational obligations and deadlines.

• Issue voyage instructions and coordinate vessel nominations, terminal acceptance and port arrangements.

• Liaise with Masters, shipowners, charterers, agents, terminals and surveyors on voyage and cargo requirements.

• Monitor vessel movements, loading and discharge activities, bunker consumption and voyage performance.

• Coordinate bunker supply and other voyage services where required.

• Check shipping documents, including bills of lading, Notices of Readiness and Statements of Facts.

• Monitor voyage expenditure, review port disbursements and investigate cost variances.

• Prepare or review laytime calculations and manage demurrage and other operational claims.

• Follow up on freight, hire and voyage-related payments with relevant teams.

• Resolve operational delays, cargo discrepancies and contractual issues, escalating significant risks promptly.

• Maintain accurate voyage records and prepare operational and commercial reports.

• Guide junior operators and support improvements to operational procedures.

Requirements

• Diploma or degree in Maritime Studies, Shipping, Logistics, Business or a related discipline.

• At least 5 years of relevant experience in tanker shipping operations, preferably with a shipowner, operator or trading company.

• Strong understanding of tanker voyage execution, charter party terms and cargo operations.

• Proven experience dealing directly with shipowners, charterers and other shipping counterparties.

• Practical knowledge of laytime, demurrage, shipping documentation and voyage cost control.

• Strong commercial awareness, problem-solving and negotiation skills.

• Able to manage multiple voyages independently and respond to urgent matters across time zones.

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and voyage-management systems.

• Good communication skills and the ability to guide junior team members.