General Manager – Shipping Agency (Container Line)

About the role

We are looking for a seasoned senior shipping professional to lead our Shipping Agency business across multiple locations in the Middle East. The role provides regional and group‑level strategic oversight, guiding a team of General Managers to achieve commercial and operational excellence.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and governance for the Shipping Agency across Qatar, Oman and other regional sites.
• Oversee and mentor 5+ General Managers, ensuring alignment with business objectives, operational standards and financial targets.
• Drive P&L performance, revenue growth, profitability and expansion initiatives.
• Set strategic direction for Commercial, Operations, Customer Service, Finance and Administration functions.
• Monitor performance through financial, commercial, operational and customer KPIs.
• Develop and execute regional business plans, budgets, forecasts and growth strategies.
• Build and maintain relationships with container line principals, shipping lines, ports, terminals, NVOCCs, freight forwarders and key customers.
• Lead commercial growth through market expansion, new trade opportunities, partnerships, tenders and contract negotiations.
• Ensure regulatory compliance, cost efficiency and service quality across all locations.
• Provide strategic guidance on vessel operations, container logistics, port coordination and agency management.
• Strengthen senior leadership capabilities, succession planning and leadership development.
• Identify market trends, risks and opportunities and advise senior management.

Required profile

• 25+ years of experience in Shipping Agency, Container Line or Liner Shipping.
• Proven senior/regional/group‑level leadership experience overseeing multiple locations or business units.
• Demonstrated ability to lead senior teams, including several General Managers.
• Strong track record of P&L ownership, commercial growth and business development.
• Experience with internationally recognised container line or liner shipping companies is preferred.
• Exposure to Middle East, Asia or Africa markets is highly desirable.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain, Maritime Studies or related field; MBA or Master’s preferred.

Required skills