NPDL’s Ship Management Team is responsible for ensuring the safe, reliable and compliant operation of our fleet of container, general cargo and other managed vessels operating primarily in the Asia Pacific region, including New Zealand and Australia. We strive to continuously improve our ship management activities, with an overarching goal of being a “best in class” ship manager. Working in a complex, ever-changing environment we work hard to stay ahead of the pack.
To help us achieve this, we are looking for a Deputy Fleet Manager who will play a crucial role in supporting the General Manager, Technical & Marine, by overseeing the efficient operation and maintenance of our marine fleet. You will be coordinating fleet activities, managing maintenance schedules, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and leading the marine team. In addition, you will enhance fleet performance, optimize resources, and support the strategic objectives of the fleet management department.
Here’s what you’ll do:
Fleet Operations Management
- Manage daily marine fleet operations, including vessel scheduling, deployment, operational efficiency, and preventative maintenance plans to ensure vessel reliability.
- Monitor fleet performance metrics and implement improvements.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, including waste disposal, emissions reductions, hull biosecurity, and cyber security.
- Communicate planned downtime for surveys, maintenance, or crew changes, and notify management of risks related to vessel condition, crew competency, safety, and schedule delays.
- Assist in procurement tasks, including spare part purchasing, negotiating big-ticket items, docking, bunker contracts, and new build programs.
- Coordinate with port authorities, contractors, and service providers to ensure seamless operations.
Maintenance and Safety
- Oversee and ensure timely execution of routine and emergency vessel maintenance.
- Implement and enforce safety protocols and procedures in compliance with regulations.
- Conduct regular inspections and audits of vessels and equipment.
- Ensure full implementation of the Safety Management System (SMS) and monitor its performance, making necessary adjustments.
- Allocate resources for effective SMS functioning.
- Conduct internal audits and participate in SMS review meetings.
- Promote ownership of SMS and other systems among personnel.
- Act as a role model for safe working practices.
- Ensure measures are in place for effective emergency response.
Budget and Resource Management
- Assist in preparing and managing the fleet budget, forecasting expenses, and optimizing resource allocation.
- Monitor and control expenditures related to maintenance, repairs, and operational costs.
- Negotiate cost-effective contracts with suppliers and service providers.
- Assist with monthly budget performance reporting to executive management.
- Prepare budgets and Capex requests for major repair items such as dockings.
Team Leadership and Development
- Supervise and provide guidance to marine personnel, including engineers, crew members, and support staff.
- Facilitate training and development programs to enhance team skills and performance, including reviewing and approving training plans for shipboard personnel.
- Address personnel issues and foster a positive and productive work environment.
- Ensure the Ship Management Team is appropriately staffed with suitable personnel to meet the company’s and ISM Code requirements.
- Provide clear direction, motivation, recruitment, development opportunities, and coaching.
- Ensure systems are in place to have qualified and high-quality seagoing personnel available.
- Monitor and manage the conditions of employment for seagoing personnel, ensuring compliance with all relevant international regulations and norms.
Regulatory Compliance
- Ensure all fleet operations comply with relevant national and international maritime regulations.
- Stay informed of changes in maritime laws and standards, implementing necessary updates to procedures.
Strategic Planning
- Collaborate with the General Manager, Technical & Marine to develop and implement strategic plans for fleet expansion, modernization, and efficiency.
- Contribute to long-term objectives aimed at improving fleet performance and sustainability.
Reporting and Documentation
- Maintain comprehensive records of fleet operations, maintenance activities, and incidents.
- Prepare and present detailed reports on fleet performance, budget status, and compliance to the General Manager, Technical & Marine.
