Fleet Manager

Are you an experienced Fleet Manager in Inland Shipping with a passion for technical excellence, safety, and operational performance? This is your opportunity to take full ownership of a modern inland fleet within an international maritime environment.

As a Fleet Manager Inland Shipping, you are ultimately responsible for the technical management, safety, and performance of the fleet. This role combines strategic maritime leadership with a hands-on operational approach, making you a key player in optimizing and professionalizing fleet operations.

You act as the central link between vessels, shore-based teams, and executive management, reporting directly to the CEO and contributing to the long-term strategy as part of the Management Team.

Key Responsibilities

• Full responsibility for technical fleet management, maintenance, and safety of inland vessels
• Develop and implement a future-proof fleet strategy, including maintenance planning and investment policies
• Lead and coach superintendents and international support teams
• Ensure compliance with European inland shipping regulations, class requirements, and quality standards (ISO, vetting, inspections)
• Manage budgets, cost control, and fleet performance monitoring
• Coordinate dockings, inspections, refits, and newbuilding projects
• Lead incident and accident investigations and implement continuous improvement measures
• Act as a key liaison between crew, shore organization, and executive management
• Translate policies and procedures into practical onboard implementation
• Report directly to the CEO and actively contribute to strategic decision-making

Your Profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent experience
• Proven experience in technical ship management and fleet maintenance
• Strong leadership experience within inland shipping or the maritime sector
• Solid knowledge of safety standards and European inland shipping regulations
• Strong ability to connect people, processes, and operational priorities
• Excellent communication, decision-making, and organizational skills
• Experience working in international and multicultural environments
• Willingness to travel regularly
• Fluent in English; good knowledge of German is a plus

What’s in It for You?

• A key leadership role with direct impact on strategy and policy
• High level of autonomy and trust within a management position
• Work in a dynamic international maritime environment
• Involvement in newbuilding and investment projects
• Collaboration with experienced professionals, both onshore and offshore
• Competitive salary aligned with your responsibilities
• Opportunities for personal growth and leadership development
• A varied role with tangible impact on safety and operational performance

Interested? Apply via the button below, and one of our recruiters will contact you within 2 working days.

Our client is a logistics service provider located in Antwerp, operating within the inland shipping and broader maritime sector.