Fleet Manager (Tankers)

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Fleet Manager to lead the technical management of a tanker fleet, ensuring vessels operate safely, reliably and within approved budgets. The successful candidate will oversee Technical Superintendents, drive vessel performance and manage maintenance, dry-docking and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the technical management of assigned tankers, providing guidance to Technical Superintendents and shipboard engineering teams.
• Monitor vessel condition, machinery reliability, maintenance performance and operational readiness.
• Oversee planned maintenance programmes and ensure defects and equipment failures are addressed promptly.
• Manage dry-dockings, major repairs, retrofits and technical projects, ensuring delivery within agreed budgets, schedules and quality standards.
• Prepare and control fleet operating and capital budgets, review expenditure and implement practical cost improvements.
• Ensure vessels meet applicable flag, classification, statutory and company requirements.
• Work closely with Marine and HSEQ teams to support vetting inspections, audits and the closure of technical findings.
• Lead investigations into machinery breakdowns and recurring failures, ensuring effective corrective and preventive actions.
• Monitor fuel consumption, energy efficiency and environmental performance, recommending improvements.
• Oversee procurement priorities, critical spare availability and the performance of shipyards, suppliers and service providers.
• Support the recruitment, appraisal and development of senior engineering officers and shore-based technical personnel.
• Report fleet performance, technical risks, budget variances and project progress to senior management.
• Provide technical support during emergencies and attend vessels or shipyards when required.

Requirements

• Class 1 Certificate of Competency as Chief Engineer.
• Degree or diploma in Marine Engineering or a related discipline would be advantageous.
• At least 5 years of shore-based technical management experience within the tanker sector.
• Previous sailing experience as Chief Engineer on tankers.
• Experience leading Technical Superintendents and managing multiple vessels.
• Strong knowledge of tanker machinery, cargo systems, planned maintenance and asset integrity.
• Proven experience managing dry-dockings, major repairs, technical budgets and contractors.
• Good understanding of maritime regulations, tanker vetting requirements and safety management systems.
• Strong leadership, commercial awareness and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and stakeholder-management abilities.
• Willing to travel internationally and provide support outside normal office hours when required.