Maintenance Manager

SUMMARY:
Our client is looking for an experienced and proactive Maintenance Manager to take responsibility for the upkeep, performance, and reliability of a diverse range of assets, including a fleet of fishing vessels and an onshore fish processing facility based in Port Elizabeth. This is a key leadership role requiring a strong technical background, strategic thinking, and a hands-on approach to engineering and maintenance management.

POSITION INFO:

Key Responsibilities:

• Promote a strong culture of safety, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee maintenance and repair operations for all vessels to ensure minimal downtime and high availability.
• Provide technical input and guidance to senior management.
• Manage maintenance of onshore factory equipment, including refrigeration, ice-making systems, trio skinning machines, compressors, and associated machinery.
• Develop and monitor preventative maintenance schedules for both marine and factory assets.
• Lead the planning and execution of capital expenditure projects related to operational assets.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory standards, including those from SANS, OHSA, SAMSA, HACCP, and NRCS.
• Oversee vessel drydock projects and ensure all marine assets meet regulatory requirements.
• Lead and develop a multidisciplinary technical team, including coordination with vessel engineers and external contractors.
• Manage maintenance budgets, cost centres, and ensure cost-effective operations.
• Respond rapidly to breakdowns and implement long-term corrective measures.
• Maintain accurate maintenance records, logs, and reports for all critical assets.

Candidate Profile:

• National Diploma in Engineering (preferably Mechanical).
• A BTech degree will be advantageous.

• Minimum 3 years of experience in a similar maintenance management role.
• Experience in marine, fishing, transport, or related heavy industrial sectors is highly desirable.

• Sound understanding of marine vessel propulsion systems and auxiliary equipment.
• Proficient in diagnosing and maintaining mechanical and electrical systems in both marine and industrial contexts.
• Experience with refrigeration systems, cold storage, and ice-making equipment.
• Ability to develop and implement structured maintenance schedules.
• Strong project management skills in capital upgrades and maintenance activities.
• Competent in interpreting technical documentation and managing digital maintenance systems.
• Knowledge of safety protocols and compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with inventory control, asset lifecycle planning, and contractor oversight.

Behavioural Competencies:

• Takes ownership and demonstrates strong leadership qualities.
• Analytical thinker with solid problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Reliable and calm under pressure, especially during operational emergencies.
• Highly organised with excellent time management and task prioritisation.
• Clear communicator with the ability to influence across all levels of the organisation.
• Invests in team growth and morale through coaching and feedback.
• Proactive in risk identification and prevention.
• Open to learning and adopting new technologies and systems.
• Maintains professional conduct, ethical standards, and internal stakeholder collaboration.

Additional Requirements:

• A good understanding of logistical coordination with port authorities, marine regulators, and external service providers will be beneficial.
• Willingness to respond to urgent technical issues outside of standard working hours when required.