General Manager of Marine Towing and Shipyards

Carver Companies, a Top Workplace in the Capital Region, is seeking an experienced General Manager of Marine Towing and Shipyards to join our growing team! As the General Manager of Marine Towing and Shipyards, you will provide overall leadership for the day-to-day operations of our tug and barge division, including managing the associated shipyard, contributing to our company’s success!

About Carver Companies

Carver Companies is a leading provider of construction materials, marine transportation, and infrastructure services across the East Coast, with operations in New York, South Carolina, Florida, Georgia, and Canada. Headquartered in Albany, NY, we manage a diversified portfolio that includes stone quarries, a construction company, marine terminals, and a maritime fleet serving both commercial and government clients.

With nearly four decades of industry leadership, Carver Companies is driven by operational excellence, sustainability, and innovation. As a privately held, entrepreneurial company, we prioritize adaptability, accountability, and proactive leadership. We are looking for forward-thinking professionals who thrive in dynamic, hands-on environments and are eager to contribute to our continued growth

Position Summary

The General Manager of Marine Towing and Shipyards provides overall leadership for the day-to-day operations of our tug and barge division, including managing the associated shipyard. This critical leadership role ensures smooth and efficient operation of our fleet while driving business growth, operational excellence, safety and compliance. As the senior operational leader, the General Manager will coordinate between various departments, including logistics, fleet management, shipyard operations and administration, ensuring all aspects of the business are running efficiently and effectively.

Roles and Responsibilities

Operational Management

• Manage day-to-day operations of the tug and barge fleet, ensuring that all vessels are operating efficiently, safely, and in compliance with regulations.
• Coordinate tug and barge scheduling for loading, unloading, transport, and maintenance.
• Manage shipyard operations, ensuring timely and quality repairs, maintenance, and construction of vessels.
• Ensure proper fleet management, including maintenance schedules and performance evaluations of tugboats and barges.
• Optimize logistics and route planning to ensure cost-effective and timely transport services.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage budgets with the support of the Controller for both the tug/barge fleet and shipyard operations to ensure financial targets are met.
• Monitor and control operational costs, ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Analyze financial reports to identify cost-saving measures and opportunities for increased profitability.
• Develop strategies to maximize revenue through service offerings and improving operational efficiencies.

Team Leadership and HR Management

• Manage recruitment, training, and performance management for the tug and barge crews as well as shipyard personnel in coordination with the group HR team.
• Foster a positive work environment, emphasizing safety, teamwork, and professional growth.
• Ensure employees are trained in operational safety protocols and regulatory compliance.

Safety and Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure that all tug, barge, and shipyard operations comply with local, national, and international maritime laws and environmental standards.
• Implement and enforce safety policies, conduct regular safety drills, and ensure the safety of the crew, vessels, and the environment.
• Ensure regular inspections of the vessels and shipyard to ensure they meet safety standards and prevent accidents.

Business Development and Client Relations

• Build and maintain relationships with key clients and stakeholders, ensuring that customer needs are met, and service quality is maintained.
• Identify new business opportunities, expand market share, and explore potential areas for fleet or service growth.
• Manage contracts, negotiations, and pricing agreements with clients and partners.

Shipyard Management

• Supervise the design, construction, repair, and maintenance of vessels in the shipyard.
• Manage all shipyard projects to ensure they are completed on time, within scope, and to specification.
• Ensure that shipyard facilities are adequately equipped with the necessary tools, parts, and materials for projects.

Maintenance and Logistics

• Manage maintenance schedules for tugboats and barges to ensure vessels are in good working condition and minimize downtime.
• Ensure that all shipyard equipment is well-maintained and operational to support daily activities.

Risk Management

• Identify and assess potential risks to the business, including operational, financial, and safety-related risks.
• Develop and implement plans to mitigate risks, including insurance and liability management.
• Be prepared for emergency situations, such as accidents or weather-related disruptions, and implement response strategies.

Innovation and Improvement

• Stay updated with industry trends and advancements in tug/barge and shipyard technologies.
• Implement innovative solutions to improve operational efficiency and service quality.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging staff to identify and implement process enhancements.

Strategic Planning

• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance the businesses competitiveness and profitability.
• Identify opportunities for growth and expansion of services.
• Stay informed about industry trends and developments to ensure the businesses remain competitive.

Reporting and Communication

• Provide regular updates on business performance, project status, safety incidents, and financial performance to the Executive Director of Operations.

• Ensure effective communication within the team to guarantee smooth operations across departments.

Qualifications:

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Studies, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field or 10 years of experience in the maritime industry.
• Master's degree preferred.

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of experience in the maritime industry, with at least 5 years in a senior management or leadership role overseeing tug, barge, or shipyard operations.
• Proven experience in managing a fleet of vessels, including both tugboats and barges, and overseeing shipyard operations (construction, repairs, and maintenance).
• Demonstrated experience in financial management, budgeting, and cost control in a maritime or related industrial environment.
• Experience in compliance and regulatory requirements (local and international maritime laws, safety standards, environmental regulations).

Core Skills & Competencies

• Leadership & Management: Strong ability to lead and motivate cross-functional teams, manage diverse personnel, and effectively delegate tasks. Proven ability to drive operational performance, safety, and employee engagement.
• Project Management: Ability to oversee multiple projects, including vessel construction, maintenance, and logistics, ensuring timely and high-quality execution.
• Financial Acumen: In-depth knowledge of budgeting, cost analysis, and profitability metrics to drive financial performance.
• Safety & Risk Management: Comprehensive understanding of safety protocols, risk management practices, and the ability to implement effective safety and regulatory compliance programs.
• Client Relationship Management: Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills to foster relationships with clients, suppliers, and partners.
• Problem Solving: Ability to identify operational challenges and implement innovative solutions, with a focus on operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Technological Proficiency: Familiarity with vessel management systems, shipyard technologies, and software tools for project and fleet management.

Certifications

• Professional certifications related to maritime operations, engineering, safety, and/or ship management (e.g., STCW, ISM Code).

• Safety Certifications: OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) for construction, and any industry-specific safety certifications for marine operations.

Personal Attributes

• Strong decision-making ability, with the capacity to work under pressure and handle crisis situations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative approach to leadership.
• High level of integrity and professional ethics, with a strong commitment to safety, compliance, and sustainable practices.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, balancing multiple priorities and deadlines.

Compensation & Benefits

This position offers a salary range of $175,000 to $230,000 per year, plus a potential for a performance-based bonus.

Carver Companies offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, paid time off, paid holidays, group life insurance, long term disability and a 401k with a company match of up to 8%! In addition, employees have an exclusive opportunity to invest in an employee-owned company.

We also offer voluntary benefits such as dental, vision, voluntary short-term disability, FSA, AFLAC, and supplemental life insurance. Professional development and continuing educations support is also available.

This is an on-site position located in Albany, New York

Don't miss this great opportunity to join a Top Workplace and our dynamic team!

Employment and Compliance Information

Carver Companies is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under federal, state or local laws.

Employment is at-will, meaning either the employee or the company may terminate employment at any time, with or without cause or notice, except as provided by law.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.