Pilot Operations Manager

at  Associated British Ports

ABP

We’re the UK’s largest ports operator with a network of 21 ports around Britain. We handle around one quarter of the UK’s seaborne trade and contribute £7.5 billion to our economy every year.
It’s a story we’re proud of but it doesn’t end there. We’re transforming our business and embracing the future.
We offer a vast range of roles spanning the UK, all rooted in a culture that welcomes diversity, fosters talent, encourages internal movement and progression, and places safety as our number one priority.
Associated British Ports (ABP) is the UK’s leading port operator with a network of 21 ports across England, Scotland, and Wales. Our Southampton port is a critical hub, handling a diverse range of cargo, supporting vital trade links and serving as a major cruise terminal. We are committed to operational excellence, innovation and ensuring the smooth and efficient movement of goods.
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Pilot Operations Manager to join our team in Southampton. This role is pivotal in overseeing and ensuring the safe, efficient, and effective management of our pilotage services. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining our high standards of marine safety and operational efficiency.
Accountabilities
To deputise for the Deputy Harbour Master (Pilotage) in their absence
To closely liaise with and report to the Harbour Master and Deputy Harbour Master (Pilotage) on all matters relating to Pilotage Operations.
To ensure that ABP Southampton, and in particular pilotage complies with the requirements of the Port Marine Safety Code (PMSC) and to promote continuous improvement.
To ensure compliance with all statutory requirements, Harbour Masters directions and ABPs rules relating to Pilots and Pilotage.
To liaise with the Harbour Master and Deputy Harbour Master (Pilotage) regarding the recruitment of new Pilots and to oversee the training, examination, authorisation and re-authorisation/ assessment of such Pilots.
Undertake performance development reviews and ensure Pilots have sufficient knowledge to operate independently on a day-to-day basis.
Have a proactive approach towards engagement with Pilots on a group and individual basis.
To ensure close liaison with VTS on matters relating to pilotage and keep them informed of all reports and incidents affecting the safety of navigation.
To liaise with Port Planning & Data Centre to ensure the efficient allocation of Pilots and use of transport.
To examine incident reports, interview the Pilots concerned, conduct inquiries, and report any serious incidents to the Harbour Master, MCA and MAIB as necessary and to make recommendations to the Harbour Master based on the findings of the inquiry while promoting a just and learning culture.
To take an active part in the on-call duty roster.
Skills, experience, qualifications and competencies
Essential
Experience of operational line management in a marine environment.
Thorough knowledge of Port Marine Safety Code (PMSC), all relevant marine, harbour, H&S and environment legislation and its relevance to pilotage operations.
Ability to balance the demands of stakeholders with regards to safety and commercial awareness.
Flexible approach to working hours including a willingness to travel as required.
Committed approach including being a part of the on-call duty roster.
Knowledge of port operations, health and safety and pilotage operations.
An enthusiasm for continuous improvement to Pilotage Operations.
Demonstrate a positive lead on staff engagement as part of the management of the Pilotage team.
Full UK driving licence.
High degree of computer literacy skills.
Desirable
Relevant sea going qualification (Certificate of Competency) or UKMHA Harbour Masters qualification.
Relevant ship towage and barge towage experience
Pilotage experience.
Management experience.
Educated to degree level

Please refer the Job description for details