Head of Operations

APM Terminals

➢ Responsible for the leadership and direction for staff and the day-to-day Operations of the Terminal. This position provides input for effective

At APM Terminals, a global leader in port and terminal operations, we enable global trade and drive sustainable growth. What drives us forward is a mindset of always improving — observing how work happens, identifying what creates value, and removing what gets in the way. We constantly look for smarter, simpler, and safer ways of operating. If you thrive in environments where people value learning and are committed to continuously improve daily operations, join us and be apart of our journey.  

With the launch of the new platform in 2019, Vado Gateway is the first semi-automated port in Italy with a fully automated gate and stacking yard. Vado Gateway is one of the most competitive terminals in Europe, combining innovation, automation, intermodal connectivity, and the ability to offer fully integrated and complex services such as cold storage, project cargo, Ro-Ro and intermodal transport.

What We Can Offer

At APMT Terminals, we foster a dynamic learning and training culture that empowers our employees to excel. Our commitment to improvement is driven by Lean principles, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to develop their skills and advance their careers. Experience a diverse, multinational workplace where your operational insights directly influence how we work. 

The Head of Operations is responsible for the leadership, strategic direction of all terminal operations, staff and day-to-day running of the terminal. You will be tasked to develop and maintain an operational strategy that ensures a safe, efficient, and cost-effective terminal environment. As a key member of the Senior Management Team, you will drive operational excellence, safety, productivity, and continuous improvement across the facility to meet business goals and projections.

Reporting

The Head of Operations reports to the Terminal Managing Director / CEO

Job location

This position is on-site, based in Vado Ligure (Italy).

Key responsibilities:

• Contribute to the terminal’s business strategy and drive key operational initiatives.
• Define and execute operational plans, objectives, and long‑range goals.
• Continuously improve operational processes, methods, and quality standards.
• Provide leadership and ensure safety across all operational staff and activities.
• Lead supplier and customer negotiations, including Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
• Ensure all processes comply with HSSE policies and APM Terminals global standards.
• Liaise with customs, port authorities, trucking companies, and other partners to ensure compliance and alignment.
• Manage operational budgeting, cost control, and performance reporting.
• Foster a culture of coaching, motivation, and structured work execution within the operations teams.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and promote Lean practices.
• Where applicable, liaise with labor unions and support long‑term negotiation processes.
• Monitor, report, and enhance operational KPIs and business targets.

Qualifications and skills

• University degree in logistics, maritime/port management, or industrial/process engineering.
• (Preferred) Postgraduate studies in Port/Terminal Management or related fields.
• Minimum 7 years of container terminal operations management experience.
• Deep understanding of the container shipping industry end‑to‑end.
• Strong background in cost and productivity optimization, Lean improvements, and process implementation.
• Expertise in modern terminal operations and Terminal Operating Systems (TOS).
• Experience with budgeting, financial reporting, and operational strategy.
• Strong mindset of continuous improvement – someone who is naturally curious, committed to solving problems at the root, and driven to make things better every day
• Conflict Management: as the Head of Operations will deal with port authorities, contractors and vendors, shipping lines representatives, customs bodies and labour unions at need.
• Effective Negotiation skills Fluent English and Italian.

If you'd like to contribute to shaping the future of global trade, driving operational excellence, and leading teams in a world-class terminal environment — we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today and become part of APM Terminals’ global journey

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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