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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