Overview
Port Operations Team Leader – Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Port Operations Team Leader
Location: Southampton
Company: Ocean Network Express (Europe) Ltd
Department: Operations
We are looking for an experienced leader in container shipping with a passion for operations and a keen eye for detail to join Ocean Network Express (ONE) as our Team Leader for Port Operations UK and take charge of a pivotal role driving operational excellence at one of the world’s top container shipping lines.
As Team Leader – Port Operations UK, you will oversee and coordinate the activities related to Port & Feeder Operations, working closely with colleagues in the UK and across Europe. Based in Southampton, you’ll lead a team of Coordinators to ensure seamless, safe, and cost-effective operations, while also contributing to strategic decision-making and business growth.
Key Responsibilities:
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Managing daily operations, cost control, and compliance
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Driving team performance and motivation
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Supporting commercial goals and customer service excellence
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Acting as a key liaison between internal departments, vendors, and terminals
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Deputising for the Port Operations Manager when required
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Lead and mentor your team, fostering a high-performing and motivated environment
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Ensure smooth vessel operations, including export customs documentation and dangerous cargo handling
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Maintain strong relationships with ports, vendors, and internal stakeholders
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Monitor budgets and ensure operational KPIs are met
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Ensure compliance with all port and customs regulations, including AEO status and DG acceptance
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Deliver outstanding customer service aligned with ONE’s core values
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Contribute to continuous improvement and change management initiatives
Skills and experience:
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Minimum 5 years’ experience in shipping, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or team leadership role
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Proven experience in container shipping and ships agency
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Strong knowledge of UK ports (especially Southampton, London Gateway, Felixstowe)
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Excellent communication and influencing skills
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Confident decision-maker, comfortable working under pressure
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Working knowledge of the IMDG code, G Suite, and Microsoft Office
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Proactive, strategic, and commercially minded
Why Join ONE?
At Ocean Network Express, we pride ourselves on offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment where leadership, innovation, and collaboration are celebrated. You’ll join a global network of passionate professionals committed to reshaping the future of shipping.
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Paid annual leave of 25 days per annum in addition to UK public holidays
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Membership of the Company’s Group Pension Plan, into which the Company will contribute up to 10% of basic salary.
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Permanent Health Insurance (PHI)
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Death in Service Benefit (x8 annual salary)
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Employee Assistance Programme, with free independent confidential support and virtual GP services
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Private Medical Cover (BUPA) after two years’ service
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Interest free annual travel season ticket loan
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Annual Medical Health check
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Annual eye test and contribution towards glasses for VDU prescriptions
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Online employee discount platform including retail, health, leisure, motor and more plus Cycle to work, Taste Card
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Loyalty Award Scheme
How to Apply
If you’re ready to lead the way in port operations, we want to hear from you!
Apply now by submitting your CV below. The closing date for this role is 27th July 2025.
IMPORTANT: Before applying for this role, please make sure you have the right to work in the country where the role is based. Unless it clearly stipulates within in the job advert above that the hiring company is looking to or able to sponsor applicants it is deemed that the hiring employer will only consider applications from those able to comply with and work in the country where the role is based.
