Role Summary
The Technical Director is a senior leadership position responsible for providing strategic oversight and management of all technical aspects of a shipping company’s fleet. This role ensures operational excellence, regulatory compliance, cost efficiency, and technical performance across the organization’s managed vessels. The Technical Director leads technical strategy, team leadership, planning, budgeting, and execution of maintenance and dry-docking programs.
Key Responsibilities
Technical & Operational Leadership
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Lead and oversee all technical operations of the company’s fleet to ensure optimal vessel performance, safety, and compliance with international maritime regulations
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Develop and implement long-term technical strategies aimed at improving fleet efficiency, reducing operational costs, and ensuring technical excellence.
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Manage dry-docking planning, major repairs, inspection programs, and maintenance schedules across the fleet.
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Collaborate with ship management, chartering, operations, and commercial functions to align technical activities with business goals.
Compliance & Quality
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Ensure compliance with all statutory requirements, class society standards, and flag state regulations.
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Monitor technical performance indicators and lead corrective actions to maintain high standards of safety, quality, and reliability.
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Drive implementation of quality management systems and continuous improvement processes.
Team Management & Development
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Lead, mentor, and develop the technical team, including superintendents, engineers, and other technical staff.
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Build and maintain a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous learning within the technical department.
Strategic Projects & Innovation
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Identify opportunities for fleet modernization, energy efficiency initiatives, and technological enhancements.
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Lead or support special projects related to new regulations, sustainability, digital tools, and performance analytics.
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Represent the company in technical discussions with classification societies, shipyards, suppliers and external partners.
Budgeting & Resource Management
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Develop and monitor technical department budgets, ensuring cost-effective solutions while maintaining high quality and safety standards.
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Oversee procurement planning for spares, equipment, and services required for maintenance and operations.
Skills & Competencies
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Strong leadership and strategic thinking with the ability to manage large teams and influence stakeholders.
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Deep understanding of marine engineering, ship systems, and technical operations across multiple vessel types.
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Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
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Effective communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration across departments and external partner
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Ability to interpret technical data, performance metrics, and regulatory requirements.
Qualifications & Experience
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Bachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, or a related maritime field; advanced technical or management qualifications are advantageous.
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Chief Engineer Certificate of Competency - Chief Engineer equivalent maritime license is highly desirable
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Typically 10–15+ years of experience in technical management roles within the shipping industry, with demonstrated leadership responsibilities.
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Experience managing bulk carriers or containers and international exposure is preferred.