Shift Manager at Lekki Freeport Terminal

Company: Lekki Freeport Terminal (LFT)
Job Title: Shift Manager
Job Type: Full-time
Location: Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos
Job Field: Logistics / Maritime / Operations
Qualification: Bachelor’s Degree
Experience: Minimum of 5 years

About Lekki Freeport Terminal

Lekki Freeport Terminal (LFT) operates the container terminal at Lekki Deep Sea Port, Nigeria’s first true deep-sea port and one of the most advanced maritime gateways in West Africa. Strategically located within the Lagos Free Zone in Ibeju-Lekki, LFT connects global trade to Nigeria through sustainable, technology-driven port operations.

LFT combines automation, digitisation, modern equipment and data-driven processes to provide faster, safer and more reliable cargo flows for shippers and shipping lines.

Job Purpose

The Shift Manager will oversee the day-to-day operations of the terminal, including vessel, yard, gate and Container Freight Station (CFS) operations.

The role covers both the project implementation and operational phases and requires close coordination with internal teams, customers, shipping lines, authorities and other stakeholders to achieve the terminal’s operational objectives.

Major Responsibilities

Project Phase

• Support the implementation of the terminal project.
• Prepare job descriptions for frontline team members.
• Develop and implement training plans and materials for frontline employees.
• Develop and implement operational business processes and SOPs.
• Work with other departments on systems implementation.
• Contribute to strategic initiatives that prepare the terminal for future operations.
• Engage stakeholders and customers to align operational and planning requirements.
• Provide training to stakeholders when required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Operational Phase

• Promote and enforce LFT safety and security policies.
• Manage, motivate and instruct Operations Team members.
• Organise daily tasks, establish priorities and ensure efficient utilisation of labour and equipment.
• Manage overall container terminal operations in line with the company’s strategy, business plan and budget.
• Participate in the selection and negotiation of agreements with suppliers, customers and authorities.
• Liaise with shipping lines, agents, trucking companies, customs, port authorities and other statutory authorities.
• Conduct periodic performance reviews with direct reports.
• Manage terminal productivity and ensure world-class operational performance.
• Lead Operations meetings and resolve operational issues affecting port users.
• Maintain effective relationships with shipping lines, freight forwarders, transporters, customs, NPA and other government agencies.
• Motivate and support the Operations Team towards achieving terminal objectives.
• Maintain strong relationships with business counterparts and other stakeholders.
• Train and develop Operations Team members in technical and non-technical aspects of their roles.
• Identify high-potential employees for special projects and succession planning.
• Ensure all terminal activities are conducted professionally and safely.
• Coordinate daily manpower and equipment allocation across terminal areas.
• Monitor equipment and handling gear condition and maintenance.
• Monitor ongoing operations to ensure productivity and performance benchmarks are achieved.
• Safeguard sensitive information within critical areas of the terminal.
• Monitor cost-control measures and ensure compliance with the approved budget.
• Prepare and submit required reports to clients.
• Coordinate with relevant teams regarding Terminal Operating System and billing systems.
• Ensure Operations provides Billing and Finance with required data within prescribed timelines.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Critical Success Factors

Project Phase

• Achievement of project execution milestones without delays.
• Departmental readiness for trials and commercial operations.
• Successful departmental team build-up according to the project timeline.
• Successful implementation of TOS, GOS and process automation.
• Preparation of job descriptions for Operations Execution roles.
• Preparation of SOPs for all Operations activities.

Operational Phase

• Effective team building.
• Strict implementation of Operations SOPs.
• Maintenance of a safe and reliable work environment.
• Achievement of operational KPIs.
• High productivity combined with safety and cost efficiency.
• Effective leadership of all Operations sections.
• Strong collaboration with supporting departments.
• Timely management reporting.
• Effective coordination with shipping lines and relevant departments.
• Preparation of shift reports.
• Effective leadership during exceptional situations.
• Prompt communication and preparation of incident reports when required.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in Logistics, Operations or a related field.
• Master’s Degree is an advantage.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a container terminal operations environment in a managerial role.
• Experience in greenfield or brownfield project implementation is an advantage.
• Experience with NAVIS N4 and participation in its implementation is an advantage.
• Experience in process optimisation.
• In-depth knowledge of the shipping industry and port business.
• Strong knowledge of people management, stakeholder coordination and team leadership.
• Knowledge of the various functions of a container terminal or port.
• Knowledge of accounting, billing and associated documentation.

Skills

• Ability to sustain a high level of activity and energy while approaching daily challenges professionally.
• Effective negotiation and conflict-resolution skills.
• Strong leadership and ability to obtain cooperation and assistance from others.
• Strong results orientation.
• Cultural awareness and experience working in a multicultural environment.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing priorities.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively in spoken and written English.
• Ability to work weekends, nights, public holidays and extended hours when required.

Major Competencies

• Analysis
• Change Management
• Coaching
• Conflict Management
• Customer Focus
• Decisiveness
• Integrity
• Leadership
• Planning
• Quality Focus

Job Dimension

• Work Environment: Indoor and outdoor
• Travel within Lagos: Limited
• National Travel: Limited
• International Travel: Rare
• Work Location: Onshore
• Working at Heights: Yes
• Working Hours: 12-hour shifts, day/night
• On Call: Yes
• Contact After Hours: Yes

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should apply online through the application form.

Click here to apply online

Application Closing Date

Not Specified.