JOB TITLE: Port Agent
DEPARTMENT: Port Agency
COMPANY: MH Bland & Co Ltd
REPORTS TO: Port Agency Operations Manager
PURPOSE:
Acting as the local representative of the principal, the agent provides local knowledge and expertise and ensures that the principal’s requirements are performed with the utmost efficiency and despatch. Coordinate and act upon all vessels’ requirements on behalf of the principal. Ensure that the principals’ interests are always protected and keep close contact with all parties involved in the operation.
KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
· Responsible for manning all administrative operational tasks, i.e. emails, telephone calls, VHF, delivery of goods, airport pick-ups, etc.
· Responsible for the preparation of the vessel’s requirements.
· Responsible for liaising with suppliers/customers/authorities on vessel’s requirements
· Responsible for coordinating all deliveries to vessel with the respective parties to ensure that there are no delays in providing the required service
· Responsible for keeping the Principal advised of all operational movements
· Responsible for keeping the Marine Service Manager informed of developments
· MUST respond to emails and telephone calls outside of office hours
· Attendance onboard the vessel when required
· Physical attendance required at the airport, hospitals, vessels, yachts, cruise liners, and commercial vessels calling alongside
· Compulsory attendance on board for the delivery of cash on board (CTM – Cash to Master)
· Assist other Port Agents in resolving issues
· Data entry onto the operational system
· Maintain the operations file to keep it up to date
· Provide quotations for services
In addition to the above, the jobholder will be required to perform other duties which may be assigned by the directors from time to time.
QUALITY & CUSTOMER SERVICE:
In carrying out all the above, the job holder will always adhere to ISO9001 objectives and will comply with all departmental and company requirements, procedures and policies as stated in the Quality Manuals. A clear understanding of the Quality Manuals and Work Instructions concerning HEALTH & SAFETY is essential. At all times, the job holder should operate in the interests of the company and its customers.
REQUIREMENTS:
· Previous experience as a Port Agent (advantageous)
· Previous experience in Port and Maritime Services (preferred)
· MUST have a minimum of 5 GCSEs (to include English, Maths and Spanish)
· MUST be fully conversant with all the appropriate regulations and requirements relating to the port, area, or sector in which the agency operates
· MUST be assertive, decisive, and able to take immediate action when necessary
· MUST be professional
· MUST be computer literate and proficient in Microsoft Office
· MUST be proficient in English and Spanish; knowledge of additional languages (advantageous)
· MUST be a good swimmer
· MUST be able to determine to whom we can extend a credit line
· MUST hold a clean driving licence Class “A” & “B”
· MUST be a good seaman
· Excellent communication skills (oral & written)
· Excellent time management, customer care and interpersonal skills
· Excellent organisational skills
· Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills
· Demonstrate a proactive attitude towards learning
· Ability to stay calm and handle a crisis
· Ability to work on own initiative without any supervision
· Ability to work under pressure without losing composure
· Ability to work independently as well as within a team
· Ability and willingness to learn any new tools
· Ability to multitask and adapt in a fast-paced environment
· Attention to detail
· Flexible approach to work
· First Aid at Work Certificate (desirable)