Our client is a fully integrated global logistics organisation, operating across ports, terminals, and shipping networks in APAC. With a bold transformation agenda and a strong focus on innovation and operational excellence, they are committed to optimising terminal and yard operations across the region. This newly created role presents a rare opportunity to join a business at the forefront of global trade and supply chain performance, with real visibility to senior global leadership and access to incredible career progression opportunities.
Position Overview:
Reporting directly to an executive based overseas, the Senior Operational Excellence Manager – APAC will lead the standardisation and uplift of operational processes across Australia, with involvement in international projects across Asia. You will build and lead a Regional Centre of Excellence, bringing together people, systems, and processes to drive innovation, automation, and best-in-class container terminal operations.
This is a role where impact matters. You’ll partner with frontline ops and IT to drive transformative change in how ports and terminals execute planning and manage ship and yard operations—making a meaningful contribution to scalability, efficiency, and customer service levels.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the development and scaling of a Regional Centre of Operational Excellence, providing project support, training, and systems optimisation across port and terminal operations.
- Drive the standardisation and execution of core processes in ship planning, yard operations, and gate operations, ensuring terminal performance is optimised end-to-end.
- Project manage operational and system implementation initiatives—collaborating with global and regional stakeholders in Operations, IT, and Strategy.
- Design and implement training programs for planners and controllers to optimise Terminal Operating System (TOS) utilisation.
- Identify and implement continuous improvement tools that reduce inefficiencies and boost service performance.
- Oversee the integration of automation technologies, ensuring effective adoption and positive operational impact.
- Partner closely with local leaders to deliver measurable cost and performance improvements, while uplifting safety, compliance, and employee engagement.
- Prepare regional terminals for future scale by ensuring consistency, process rigour, and customer-centric operations.
About You:
- You have experience in planning and executing port/yard operations – particularly ship or container yard operations.
- You're strong operationally and understand that the principles of great operations are universal—get containers off ships and optimise the yard without wasting time.
- You’ve led or trained others in system enhancements or process improvements to optimise terminal/yard performance.
- You’re a strong communicator who builds relationships across business units— a driver of change.
- Comfortable with travel—this role will see you flying business class and engaging with operations across Asia, once every couple of months.
- You’re commercially aware, data-savvy, and thrive in environments where you can make a visible impact.
- You’re looking for a career-defining opportunity—something with genuine Exec visibility and long-term pathway to more senior roles within the business.
Why Join:
People join this business to make an impact. You’ll help shape operations that are critical to global trade, drive meaningful transformation, and play a major role in APAC operational performance. This is a role with international exposure, direct line to global leadership, and opportunity to be part of a high-performing culture with strong investment in career development and innovation.
What’s on Offer:
- A newly created, highly visible role with significant opportunity to shape your legacy.
- An outstanding global leader that will empower you to develop and grow, with strong surrounding support to ensure you can deliver, with excellence.
- Global logistics organisation with strong APAC footprint and long-term career runway.
- Supportive leadership and training, with a strong culture of innovation and collaboration.
- Attractive remuneration package and access to international travel and projects.
How to Apply:
To apply online, please click on the apply function. Alternatively, for a confidential discussion, please contact Lewis Ironside on 0435 824 108 or lironside@sharpandcarter.com.au.
