Managing Director

Role overview

We are hiring a commercially focused Managing Director / Country Head to run and grow a shipping agency operation in Qatar. This leadership position carries end-to-end responsibility for business performance, profitability, customer relationships, and strategic expansion across the container liner and shipping agency space.

The company is specifically seeking candidates with hands-on experience from shipping lines or RoRo operations. Strong leadership, commercial judgment, and operational oversight are essential for success in this role.

Key responsibilities

• Direct the overall functioning of the Qatar business entity.
• Improve profitability, expand revenue, and raise operational standards.
• Take full ownership of profit and loss outcomes and financial delivery.
• Build strong partnerships with shipping lines, port authorities, and major clients.
• Handle commercial priorities such as customer acquisition, trade growth, and agency collaborations.
• Supervise vessel handling, port agency work, documentation, and service execution.
• Guide, coach, and support the local operational and commercial workforce.
• Spot new business opportunities and pursue strategic alliances.
• Maintain adherence to maritime regulations in Qatar and corporate governance expectations.
• Work in close coordination with the regional leadership team in Dubai.

Experience and background

The employer is looking for a candidate with 15 or more years of professional experience in shipping agencies or a container liner company. A solid background in container shipping lines or shipping agency operations is mandatory.

Applicants should demonstrate strong commercial capability, including P&L management, business development, and client acquisition. Experience overseeing multiple offices, business units, or legal entities will be valuable.

A Master Mariner profile is welcome, particularly when paired with ashore commercial or operational experience. Candidates from forwarding, logistics, oil and gas, or warehousing backgrounds will not be considered.

Additional note

The client is only considering professionals with shipping line or RoRo experience.