Chief Operations Officer - MedPort Tangier (APM Terminals)

Job Description

APM Terminals

Chief Operating Officer – MedPort Tangier - APM Terminals

At APM Terminals, we play a critical role in enabling global trade and supporting sustainable economic growth. As part of the A.P. Moller–Maersk Group, we operate one of the world’s largest and most advanced port and terminal networks, connecting economies and communities across the globe.

Our performance is built on a strong Lean foundation, where safety, continuous improvement, and operational excellence are embedded in everything we do. If you are inspired by complex operations, transformational leadership, and the pursuit of excellence at scale, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact.

About APM Terminals MedPort Tangier

APM Terminals MedPort Tangier is among the most advanced and efficient container terminals worldwide. Strategically located on the main East–West trade lane through the Mediterranean, the terminal began operations in 2019 and expanded through 2024.

With state-of-the-art automation—including remote-controlled super post-Panamax cranes and automated yard systems—the terminal now supports an annual capacity of 5 million TEUs and sets new benchmarks for productivity, safety, and innovation in the industry.

The Role

As Chief Operating Officer, you will provide end-to-end leadership for all operational, technical, and IT functions at MedPort Tangier. Reporting to the Terminal Managing Director, you will be accountable for operational performance, cost leadership, safety, and service excellence—while shaping the terminal’s long-term growth and competitiveness.

This is a pivotal leadership role in a highly automated, fast-paced, and complex operational environment.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Strategy & Governance

• Lead end-to-end terminal operations with full accountability for productivity, efficiency, cost performance, and continuous improvement

• Define and implement operational standards, procedures, and long-term capability roadmaps aligned with global APM Terminals benchmarks

• Ensure the terminal consistently meets or exceeds performance benchmarks across all operational KPIs

• Drive disciplined performance management, ensuring delivery on targets and within (or under) budget

• Champion technology adoption and digital solutions to enhance operational performance

Health, Safety & Environment

• Role-model and reinforce a strong safety culture across all functions

• Ensure full compliance with HSE requirements, regulations, and internal standards

Stakeholder & Commercial Leadership

• Build and maintain strong relationships with government authorities, port stakeholders, customers, and community representatives

• Represent the terminal in external forums, audits, inspections, and critical negotiations

• Act as the primary operational interface with regional and global APM Terminals leadership

• Apply strong financial acumen, understanding the commercial impact of operational decisions on customers and overall business performance

Lean & Continuous Improvement

• Lead the Lean operating system with rigour, driving SQDC, standard work, and disciplined execution

• Embed a culture of continuous improvement, delivering both incremental gains and step-change transformations

• Ensure Lean principles are deeply integrated into daily operations and leadership behaviours

People Leadership & Talent Development

• Provide visible, inspirational leadership to a large, diverse workforce

• Foster a high-performance culture built on collaboration, accountability, and empowerment

• Maintain strong connection to frontline teams, enabling engagement, ownership, and performance

• Actively coach and develop leaders, ensuring strong succession planning for key roles, including your own

What We’re Looking For

• Senior operational leader with a proven track record in container terminals, ports, logistics, or large-scale infrastructure operations

• Demonstrated success leading large, multicultural teams through change in complex environments

• Strong business and financial acumen, including experience managing complex P&L responsibilities

• Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and negotiation skills

• A strong Lean mindset: naturally curious, disciplined, and committed to solving problems at the root

• Thrives in challenging environments and enjoys the journey of continuous improvement

• Passion for innovation and technology-enabled operations

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Logistics, or a related field; MBA or equivalent preferred

• Fluency in English required; French and/or Arabic is an advantage

Why Join Us?

This role offers exposure to some of the most complex and advanced terminal operations in the world. You will gain deep experience in general management, strategic leadership, and large-scale operational transformation—creating strong pathways toward senior leadership roles such as Terminal Managing Director or Regional Operations leadership within APM Terminals.

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Maersk is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we embrace different styles of thinking. Maersk is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants without regard to race, colour, gender, sex, age, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy or parental leave, veteran status, gender identity, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with all legal requirements.

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