The Operations & Compliance Manager is responsible for the safe, efficient and compliant delivery of Rathlin Ferry's shore-based and vessel support operations.
The postholder will oversee operational performance, safety management, regulatory compliance, vessel maintenance planning, dry docking projects, personnel management and stakeholder engagement. The role acts as the primary link between vessel operations, shore-based teams, regulatory authorities and senior management, ensuring the highest standards of safety, service delivery and operational excellence are maintained.
The Operations & Compliance Manager will play a key role in maintaining and continuously improving the Company's Safety Management System (SMS), supporting vessel crews, managing operational risks and ensuring compliance with all relevant maritime and employment legislation.
Key Responsibilities Operational Management
- Responsible for the day-to-day management of the terminal office and shore-based operations.
- Ensure services are delivered safely, efficiently and in accordance with company procedures and regulatory requirements.
- Monitor operational performance and identify opportunities for improvement.
- Support the development and implementation of operational policies and procedures.
- Assist with service planning, resource allocation and operational decision making.
- Maintain awareness of company objectives, budgets and key performance indicators.
- Participate in management meetings and contribute to strategic planning activities.
- Ensure effective communication between shore-based staff, vessel crews and senior management.
Safety, Compliance & Risk Management
- Act as Company Safety Officer.
- Support the implementation, maintenance and continual improvement of the Company's Safety Management System (SMS).
- Promote a positive safety culture throughout the organisation.
- Conduct and review risk assessments and safe systems of work.
- Lead investigations into incidents, accidents, near misses and complaints.
- Ensure corrective and preventative actions are implemented and monitored to completion.
- Manage and monitor Non-Conformance Notices (NCNs), observations and audit findings.
- Coordinate internal audits, inspections and compliance reviews.
- Prepare reports and documentation for management, auditors and regulatory authorities.
- Support compliance with the ISM Code, Port Marine Safety Code, MCA requirements and all relevant legislation.
- Monitor company training and competency requirements.
- Maintain safety records and compliance documentation.
Vessel Maintenance & Dry Dock Management
- Coordinate vessel maintenance programmes in conjunction with vessel Superintendents and Masters.
- Assist in planning and managing vessel dry dockings, refits and major maintenance projects.
- Monitor vessel deficiencies and ensure timely resolution of defects.
- Maintain maintenance schedules and certification tracking systems.
- Coordinate contractors, suppliers and service providers involved in vessel maintenance activities.
- Support statutory surveys, inspections and certification renewals.
- Assist with budgeting and cost control relating to maintenance and dry docking projects.
- Ensure maintenance records are accurate and up to date.
Personnel Management
- Manage and lead shore-based administrative and operational staff.
- Support Masters and Superintendents in the management and development of vessel personnel.
- Assist with recruitment, onboarding and induction of employees.
- Monitor staffing levels and coordinate annual leave and absence management.
- Conduct performance reviews and support staff development.
- Manage routine employee relations matters and liaise with the Company's HR advisors where required.
- Ensure training, certification and competency records are maintained.
- Support succession planning and workforce development initiatives.
- Promote a culture of professionalism, accountability and teamwork.
Customer Service & Commercial Support
- Ensure a high standard of customer service is maintained across all operations.
- Support ticketing operations and customer communications where required.
- Assist with the promotion and development of Company services.
- Handle escalated customer complaints and operational issues professionally and effectively.
- Support tourism, community and commercial initiatives where appropriate.
Stakeholder Engagement
- Liaise with external agencies, including
- Contractors and Suppliers
- Represent the Company professionally at meetings, inspections and stakeholder engagements.
- Foster positive working relationships with community groups and partner organisations.
Administration & Governance
- Prepare and submit operational reports, audits and performance information.
- Maintain accurate operational, personnel, safety and compliance records.
- Support the development and review of company policies and procedures.
- Manage document control and ensure company records are maintained in accordance with statutory and company requirements.
- Assist with insurance claims, investigations and regulatory enquiries when required.
- Support continual improvement initiatives throughout the business.
General Responsibilities
- Comply with all Company policies and procedures.
- Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.
- Work flexibly to support operational requirements, including occasional evenings and weekends.
- Undertake any other duties reasonably requested by the Managing Director or General Manager.
Essential Criteria
- Minimum 3 years' management or supervisory experience.
- Experience managing teams within a fast-paced operational environment.
- Experience conducting risk assessments, safety inspections and investigations.
- Strong organisational and project management skills.
- Experience managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong report writing and administrative abilities.
- Competent in Microsoft Office and digital management systems.
- Full UK driving licence.
- Ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
Desirable Criteria
- Experience within the maritime, ferry, transport, logistics or tourism sectors.
- Knowledge of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code.
- Experience supporting vessel maintenance programmes and dry dock projects.
- Understanding of MCA regulations and maritime compliance requirements.
- Internal Auditor qualification.
- IOSH Managing Safely, NEBOSH or equivalent Health & Safety qualification.
- First Aid qualification.
- Experience managing audits and regulatory inspections.
- Experience working with SharePoint or other document management systems.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Free or subsidised travel
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Sick pay
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Ballycastle BT54 6BT: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:
- Customer service: 1 year (preferred)
- Management: 2 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Driving Licence (preferred)
Work Location: In person
