Port Operations Manager Job Vacancy in Massawa, Eritrea – Maritime and Port Management

Job Description

Position: Port Operations Manager

Company: DP World

Location: Massawa, Eritrea

Experience: Minimum 8-10 years in port operations, terminal management, or maritime logistics, with at least 3 years in a managerial capacity.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Studies, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree or professional certifications in port management (e.g., IAPH, ICHCA) are highly advantageous.

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Maritime and Port Management

Department: Port Operations

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

DP World is a leading global provider of smart logistics solutions, operating a network of marine and inland terminals across six continents. With a commitment to enabling global trade and driving economic growth, DP World is renowned for its innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in port operations and supply chain management. Our entry into the Eritrean market represents a strategic investment in developing Massawa’s port infrastructure, aiming to transform it into a modern, efficient gateway for regional and international trade. This initiative is part of a broader vision to enhance Eritrea’s connectivity, support its economic development, and create significant career opportunities in Eritrea. We are dedicated to fostering local talent and building a world-class team to manage and grow our operations, contributing to the nation’s prosperity and positioning Eritrea as a key player in Red Sea maritime logistics.

Job Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Port Operations Manager to lead and optimize all operational activities at our Massawa terminal. This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and cost-effective handling of cargo, vessels, and equipment. The successful candidate will drive operational excellence, implement best practices, and manage a diverse team to achieve key performance indicators (KPIs) in productivity, safety, and customer service. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of maritime trade in Eritrea and build a legacy of operational brilliance. For more jobs in Eritrea and to explore this role further, visit our partner portal at https://eritreajobsearch.com.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the port terminal, including vessel planning, berthing, cargo handling (container, bulk, general), yard management, and gate operations.
• Develop and implement operational strategies, procedures, and policies to maximize efficiency, throughput, and equipment utilization.
• Manage and lead a large team of operations staff, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure strict compliance with international maritime regulations, port security protocols (ISPS), and health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards.
• Liaise with key stakeholders including shipping lines, customs authorities, freight forwarders, trucking companies, and government agencies.
• Prepare and manage the operations budget, control costs, and identify opportunities for operational savings and revenue enhancement.
• Analyze operational data and performance metrics to generate reports for senior management and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Spearhead projects for terminal development, equipment procurement, and process automation to enhance capacity and service quality.

Required Skills

• Proven leadership and people management skills with the ability to motivate and develop large, multidisciplinary teams.
• In-depth technical knowledge of port terminal operations, container handling equipment (CHE), and terminal operating systems (TOS).
• Strong financial acumen and experience in budgeting, cost control, and P&L management.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and crisis management abilities in a fast-paced 24/7 environment.
• Outstanding communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Fluent in English; knowledge of Tigrinya, Arabic, or Italian is a significant asset.
• High proficiency in MS Office and data analysis tools.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is mandatory. Advanced degrees or professional certifications from recognized maritime or logistics institutions will be given strong preference, demonstrating a commitment to professional development in this specialized sector of employment in Eritrea.

Experience

A minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in port or terminal operations management is required. Candidates must have a verifiable track record of improving operational efficiency, managing large teams, and ensuring compliance in a similar international port environment. Experience in greenfield or brownfield port development projects is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive, tax-advantaged salary package commensurate with experience and global industry standards.
• Comprehensive international health, life, and disability insurance for the employee and eligible dependents.
• Performance-based annual bonus linked to terminal KPIs and personal objectives.
• Generous annual leave allowance and official public holidays.
• Housing allowance or company-provided accommodation in Massawa.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance for official use.
• Continuous professional development opportunities and access to global DP World training programs.
• Relocation assistance for candidates moving to Eritrea.

Training

• Induction program covering DP World’s global standards, safety culture, and local operational context.
• Specialized training in advanced terminal operating systems, modern cargo handling methodologies, and lean management principles.
• Leadership and management development programs offered through DP World’s global academy.
• Regular workshops on the latest trends in maritime logistics, digitalization, and sustainable port operations.

Working Environment

You will be based at the DP World Massawa Terminal, a dynamic and challenging 24/7 operational environment. The role requires hands-on leadership and presence on the terminal floor. We provide a supportive, safety-first culture with access to modern facilities and technology. This is a high-visibility role critical to Eritrea’s trade infrastructure, offering unparalleled professional growth within a Fortune Global 500 company. Discover more about hiring in Eritrea and our projects across the region at https://www.sudanjobsearch.com/.

Application Process

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit a detailed CV and a cover letter outlining their suitability for the role via the official application portal. The selection process will include a preliminary screening, aptitude tests, multiple interview rounds with senior regional and global management, and final reference checks. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Equal Opportunity Statement

DP World is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for job vacancy in Eritrea without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We strongly encourage applications from Eritrean nationals and diaspora professionals looking to contribute to their homeland’s development.