Chief Operations Officer

Location: Manila, PH

The Chief Operations Officer (COO) is responsible for overseeing the daily operations, strategic direction, and overall performance of the Agency Operations and Logistics Team. The COO ensures operational efficiency and safety, and orchestrates all logistics processes from vessel scheduling to cargo movement.

• Operational Leadership and Control: Direct, coordinate, and supervise all operational activities across the Agency. Develop and implement strategies to maximize operational efficiency, drive continuous improvement, and ensure that all operational functions—from ship dispatch to turnaround—align with business objectives.
• Strategic Planning: Collaborate with the executive team to develop, refine, and execute the company's long-term operational strategy. Optimize maritime routes, scalability of logistics operations, and adapt to market shifts and technological advancements. Initiate projects to expand market presence and improve the shipping and logistics network.
• Fleet and Vessel Management: Oversee daily operation, maintenance, and performance evaluation of all company vessels. Ensure optimal fleet utilization, safety standards, timely repairs, and environmental compliance; monitor voyages for schedule adherence and minimize downtime.
• Port and Terminal Operations: Manage port calls, loading/unloading, berth allocation, and coordination with port authorities. Ensure efficient terminal operations, minimize cargo dwell times, and implement new port handling technologies to optimize throughput.
• End-to-End Logistics Oversight: Streamline logistical processes, reduce bottlenecks, and optimize freight flow. Strengthen partnerships with shippers, freight forwarders, and port operators; monitor performance of logistics providers to ensure timely delivery.
• Logistics Process Optimization: Evaluate and implement innovative logistics solutions, leverage technology for cargo tracking, optimize inventory management, and integrate with client/partner logistics systems.
• Regulatory Compliance and Safety: Ensure compliance with international maritime laws and safety protocols; foster a safety-first culture and lead incident investigations with preventative measures.
• Customer Service and Relationship Management: Maintain high-quality service standards and open communications with clients, shipping agents, government officials, and industry partners.
• Budgeting and Cost Control: Develop and manage operational budgets, monitor expenditures, and implement cost-reduction initiatives; analyze metrics and financial reports to identify opportunities for profitability.
• People Leadership and Development: Lead and develop a diverse operations and logistics team, including port managers, vessel operators, logistics coordinators, and engineers; foster accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Risk Management: Identify, assess, and mitigate risks in maritime and logistics operations; develop contingency and business continuity plans.
• Reporting: Provide regular operational and logistics performance reports, highlighting key metrics, safety, compliance, and risk management.

• Education: Bachelor's or master's degree in Maritime Studies, Logistics, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in shipping, maritime logistics, or supply chain management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or executive role overseeing operations and logistics.
• Technical Knowledge: In-depth understanding of vessel operations, international shipping regulations, port and terminal logistics, and supply chain optimization.
• Global Perspective: Experience leading multinational operations and logistics teams and working with stakeholders across diverse cultural and regulatory settings.
• Innovation: Championing new logistics solutions and operational innovations that enhance the company's competitive advantage.
• Team Leadership: Inspiring and developing teams dedicated to excellence in operations and logistics.
• Customer Orientation: Understanding client logistics needs and ensuring superior service delivery throughout the supply chain.