Shore Operations Assistant Manager

Southampton based office/WFH/ Southampton Port

Permanent, full time

Salary – £40-45k DOE

Our client, SMS UK Limited is providing all passenger logistics services. Their teams welcome cruise guests from around the world and accommodate the needs of thousands of cruise ships every year. Dedicated, fully trained and experienced staff make sure to always provide excellent service under all circumstances – through personal attention, an eye for a detail and commitment towards continued improvement.

They are now looking for an experienced and highly reliable Shore Operations Assistant Manager to join their team in Southampton, Hampshire. The Shore Operations Assistant Manager will oversee guest port, airport, and hotel operations related to the embarkation and disembarkation process. This position is pivotal in maintaining exceptional service standards and ensuring seamless coordination across teams, vendors, and cruise partners.

The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership skills, hands-on operational experience, and a deep understanding of maritime or cruise logistics, along with the ability to lead by example in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment.

Shore Operations Assistant Manager, the role:

• Supervise all aspects of guest port, airport, and hotel operations, ensuring exceptional service and operational efficiency.
• Manage and coordinate staffing levels, scheduling, and deployment across multiple locations.
• Liaise with pier, airport, and hotel personnel to resolve issues, manage incidents, and ensure smooth guest transitions.
• Support the development and implementation of operational policies and procedures.
• Monitor service quality, conduct regular audits, and ensure compliance with company and client standards.
• Lead and motivate local teams, ensuring high performance and adherence to uniform and conduct standards.
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and training of new operational staff.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, service providers, and key port authorities.
• Assist with contingency planning, irregular operations management, and crisis recovery programs.
• Ensure full compliance with UK and EU immigration, safety, and maritime regulations.
• Report on operational performance, guest feedback, and improvement opportunities.
• Participate in industry events and forums as required.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Tourism, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in cruise, maritime, or travel operations. This must include a strong knowledge of the on-board cruise experience.
• Strong knowledge of terminal, transportation, or guest logistics operations.
• Proven leadership and people management experience.
• Highly organised with strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and operational reporting tools.
• Flexible and available to support operations outside standard hours, including weekends or short notice travel.
• Must be able to pass a 10-year verifiable background check.

Shore Operations Assistant Manager, the benefits:

• 24 days of Annual Leave + Bank Holidays (or days in lieu)
• Competitive Salary
• Ongoing training and opportunities for career progression
• Long term permanent employment relationship
• Flexible working hours
• Participation in the success of the business
• Opportunity to work within a vibrant and multicultural team
• Supportive working environment

Because of the nature of the role a 10-year verifiable background check, including criminal, employment, education, and personal references will be required. Full Job Description can be provided.

Pure Human Resources Limited works in partnership with SMS UK Limited in providing HR and Recruitment support. No applications from agencies please.