Shift Manager - Container Operations

Job Description

APM Terminals

Job Title: Shift Manager – Container Operations
Department: Operations
Reporting to: Senior Manager – Planning & Operations
Location: APM Terminals Pipavav, Gujarat
Job Level: SM

About APM Terminals

APM Terminals is a global leader in port and terminal operations, serving over 60 ports worldwide. We are committed to delivering world-class performance in productivity, safety, and customer service, driven by innovation, automation, and sustainability.

About APM Terminals Pipavav

APM Terminals Pipavav is one of India’s leading gateway ports, strategically located on the west coast of India. As part of the global APM Terminals network, Pipavav connects India’s businesses to global markets with a strong focus on operational excellence, safety, and customer service.

Purpose of the Role

The Shift Manager is responsible for leading the terminal operations during assigned shifts. This role ensures smooth, safe, and efficient container handling operations, while delivering high productivity and maintaining strong cost control. The position requires close coordination with internal teams and external stakeholders to meet service levels and operational standards.

Key Responsibilities

Operational & Safety Management

• Lead and supervise all shift operations teams across yard, wharf, gate, and rail.

• Ensure full compliance with HSSE standards and drive a safety-first culture across all activities.

• Monitor shift performance and ensure that KPIs such as productivity, turnaround times, and cost metrics are achieved.

• Ensure operational activities align with APM Terminals' global standards.

Team Management & Training

• Guide and develop superintendents, supervisors, operators, and support staff (both company and contractor).

• Identify performance gaps and provide training or disciplinary actions as needed.

• Support team development and foster a high-performance culture.

Stakeholder Coordination

• Liaise with shipping lines, customs, port authorities, and other external agencies to ensure operational needs are met.

• Ensure accurate documentation and coordination with dispatch and planning teams.

Continuous Improvement

• Suggest improvements to shift processes and participate in operational excellence initiatives.

• Ensure strict adherence to cost-efficient practices and help control shift-level expenses.

Key Interfaces

Internal:

• Operations shift team

• Terminal planning and dispatch staff

• Safety and HSSE teams

External:

• Contractors and third-party vendors

• Customers and shipping line representatives

• Government and port authorities

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Maritime, or Engineering (preferred)

• 5+ years of experience in terminal or port operations, preferably in a leadership capacity

• Strong understanding of container operations and terminal management systems

• Proven leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills

• Fluency in English and local language

• Exposure to financial reporting and budget alignment is a plus

Career Growth & Learning Opportunities

This role provides an excellent platform to:

• Develop leadership skills by managing large teams

• Gain end-to-end experience in terminal operations

• Potential career progression: Operations Manager (smaller terminal)

If you’re passionate about logistics, operational excellence, and leading high-performing teams, this is a great opportunity to be part of a growing and dynamic environment at APM Terminals Pipavav.

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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