General Manager – Container Line

General Manager – Shipping Agency (Container Line) Location: Qatar Role Overview We are seeking an accomplished General Manager – Shipping Agency (Container Line) to lead the overall business operations, commercial growth, and regional profitability of our Shipping Agency business. This leadership role carries full P&L responsibility and ownership of end-to-end business operations, including commercial, operations, customer service, agency management, finance, compliance, and strategic business expansion. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in Container Line / Liner Shipping, a strong commercial mindset, and proven expertise in managing multi-functional teams while driving sustainable business growth, operational excellence, and customer satisfaction across the region. Key Responsibilities Regional Business & P&L Leadership • Assume full regional Profit & Loss (P&L) responsibility for the Shipping Agency business. • Develop and execute business strategies to achieve revenue growth, profitability, market share, and operational excellence. • Drive overall business performance through effective commercial, operational, and financial management. • Prepare annual business plans, budgets, forecasts, and financial performance reviews. • Ensure achievement of key financial and operational KPIs. End-to-End Shipping Agency Operations • Lead the complete Shipping Agency operations across the assigned region. • Oversee vessel agency operations, container logistics, customer service, documentation, and operational execution. • Ensure seamless coordination with ports, terminals, customs authorities, transport providers, and government agencies. • Drive operational efficiency, service quality, compliance, and continuous process improvement. • Ensure adherence to international maritime regulations, company policies, and statutory requirements. Commercial & Business Development • Develop and implement commercial strategies to expand market presence and increase profitability. • Drive customer acquisition, business retention, and market expansion initiatives. • Build and strengthen relationships with Container Line principals, shipping lines, freight forwarders, NVOCCs, logistics providers, and key customers. • Lead contract negotiations, commercial agreements, tenders, and strategic partnerships. • Identify new trade opportunities, shipping routes, and business segments. Customer Relationship Management • Establish long-term strategic relationships with key customers and principals. • Ensure exceptional customer experience through proactive account management. • Resolve commercial and operational escalations effectively. • Drive customer retention and enhance service delivery standards. Operations & Supply Chain Management • Ensure efficient vessel turnaround and cargo handling operations. • Oversee container movements, equipment management, documentation, and agency coordination. • Monitor vessel schedules and optimize operational performance. • Improve turnaround times, cost efficiencies, and productivity. Leadership & People Management • Lead, mentor, and develop cross-functional teams across Commercial, Operations, Customer Service, Finance, and Administration. • Build a high-performance, customer-focused organizational culture. • Drive employee engagement, succession planning, capability development, and performance management. • Foster collaboration across regional and global stakeholders. Financial Governance & Compliance • Monitor financial performance, budgets, receivables, profitability, and cost controls. • Ensure compliance with financial governance, statutory regulations, and internal controls. • Oversee risk management, contract governance, and business continuity initiatives. Strategic Planning & Market Intelligence • Analyze market trends, competitor activities, customer requirements, and emerging trade opportunities. • Develop long-term growth strategies aligned with regional business objectives. • Provide market intelligence and strategic recommendations to senior leadership. • Drive digital transformation and operational excellence initiatives. Required Experience & Qualifications • Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain, Maritime Studies, or related discipline. • MBA or Master's Degree preferred. • Overall 25 years of progressive experience within Shipping Agency, Container Line, or Liner Shipping operations. • Minimum 8–10 years in senior leadership roles managing regional business operations. • Proven experience with internationally recognized Container Line / Liner Shipping Companies. • Experience across the Middle East, Asia, or Africa is highly desirable. Please share resume to hemapriya.s@stancosolutions.com