The VP of Technical Operations provides executive leadership over all aspects of shipbuilding programs, fleet maintenance strategies, engineering governance, and technical compliance across a marine organization’s vessel portfolio. This role bridges executive management and technical execution, ensuring the delivery of high-performance ships and sustained fleet readiness through strategic planning, lifecycle asset management, innovation, and regulatory alignment. The VP plays a critical role in driving cost-effective operations, digital transformation, and continuous improvement across new construction and operational support.
Develop and lead the long-term technical roadmap for shipbuilding, vessel conversion, and maintenance programs
Oversee capital project execution, including newbuild planning, dry docking, retrofits, and modernization efforts
Define and implement fleet maintenance strategies, asset integrity programs, and reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) initiatives
Support corporate growth initiatives, including technical input for acquisitions, strategic partnerships, or fleet expansion
Supervise shipyard engagements, engineering teams, port engineers, and technical managers across the company’s marine operations
Ensure compliance with Class society regulations, Flag state requirements, IMO/ILO conventions, and corporate safety standards
Lead technical audits, Class interactions, incident reviews, and root cause analyses for fleet-wide mechanical or structural issues
Drive digital initiatives related to technical documentation, condition monitoring, predictive analytics, and remote diagnostics
Own the technical OPEX and CAPEX budget, including spares, dry dock costs, and major overhaul forecasting
Optimize supplier and OEM relationships through long-term agreements, technical specifications, and quality benchmarks
Build and lead high-performing technical teams, ensuring professional development, knowledge transfer, and leadership succession planning
Represent technical interests at the executive level, supporting decision-making and board reporting
Corporate-level leadership in marine engineering, maintenance, and newbuild execution
Cost-effective lifecycle management and technical compliance
Team development and cross-functional coordination (Design, Procurement, Operations, HSE)
Risk-based decision-making, digitalization, and sustainability in fleet operations
Education:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
Executive-level certifications in asset management, shipyard management, or project management (e.g., PMP, MBA) preferred
Experience:
18+ years in technical operations within the marine, shipbuilding, or offshore sectors, including 8–10 years in senior management
Proven leadership of multi-vessel newbuild projects, dry docking programs, or fleet technical operations
Deep knowledge of international maritime regulations, Class rules, and marine mechanical systems
Technical & Business Skills:
Expertise in marine mechanical systems, propulsion, HVAC, hull integrity, and automation systems
Skilled in technical contract negotiation, engineering governance, and shipyard management
Experience implementing PMS, CMMS, ERP systems, and data-driven maintenance strategies
Strong financial acumen and ability to align technical operations with corporate strategy
Leadership & Soft Skills:
Visionary leader with strong cross-functional communication and board-level reporting skills
Ability to drive organizational change and foster innovation
Respected team builder who mentors senior engineering and operations personnel
High integrity, safety commitment, and global mindset for managing diverse fleets or projects