Maritime Personnel Director
Knutsen OAS Shipping is one of the world's leading operators within shuttle tanker and LNG transportation. With a fleet of more than 60 vessels and an ambitious newbuilding program that will see over 20 additional vessels delivered between 2026 and 2029, we are entering an exciting period of growth and development.
More than 2,500 employees across the globe contribute to our success, supported by a network of offices in Norway, Denmark, Latvia, France, Spain, Brazil, and the Philippines. Together, we deliver safe, reliable, and efficient maritime operations in a dynamic international environment.
Our people are our greatest asset. That is why health, safety, environmental responsibility, and quality are embedded in everything we do, shaping the way we work, collaborate, and continue to grow.
Knutsen Group is looking for an experienced and inspiring Maritime Personnel Director to lead and develop our crewing function across the organization.
In this key leadership role, you will combine strategic leadership with operational excellence, taking overall responsibility for the Crewing department, workforce planning, talent development, crewing policies, and compliance across our fleet.
This is a unique opportunity to influence both the day-to-day execution and the long-term development of crewing in one of the world's leading shipping companies.
The position reports to COO.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and further develop the Group's crewing function and Crewing department
- Develop and execute the Group's crewing strategy to support current and future business needs
- Lead workforce planning, recruitment, talent development, and succession planning across the fleet
- Establish and monitor crewing objectives, KPIs, budgets, and performance targets
- Drive continuous improvement, audit readiness, and operational excellence across all crewing activities
- Ensure a safe, competent, and sustainable workforce that supports the Group's long-term growth
Qualifications:
- Higher education within Human Resources, Management, Maritime Studies, Business Administration, or a related field. Extensive relevant experience may compensate for formal education.
- Solid experience from crewing operations within the maritime industry, preferably in a leadership role.
- Strong understanding of crew management, workforce planning, and manning requirements in an international maritime environment.
- Experience with recruitment, retention, talent development, and succession planning for seafarers.
- Good knowledge of maritime employment conditions, collective bargaining agreements, and labor relations.
- Strong understanding of MLC, STCW, SMS, flag state requirements, and other relevant maritime regulations.
- Experience managing crewing budgets, workforce planning, and performance targets.
- Proven leadership experience with the ability to build, develop, and motivate high-performing teams.
- Strong analytical, planning, and decision-making capabilities.
- Fluent in English, both written and verbal. Norwegian language skills are considered an advantage.
We are looking for someone who:
- Is a confident, self-driven, and inspiring leader
- Has a proactive, solution-oriented, and positive mindset
- Motivates and develops people and teams
- Combines strategic thinking with a hands-on approach
- Demonstrates strong analytical and decision-making skills
- Builds trust and collaborates effectively across all levels of the organization
- Has high ethical standards and acts with integrity
- Is passionate about continuous improvement and organizational development
- Thrives in an international and dynamic environment
We Offer:
- A key leadership role in a leading international shipping company
- The opportunity to influence both the strategic and operational development of crewing across the Group
- A professional, collaborative, and international working environment
- Competitive compensation and benefits
- Excellent opportunities for personal and professional development
- The opportunity to work closely with senior management and contribute to the future growth of the organization
Contact:
Magnus Gudmundsen, Chief Operation Officer
Telephone: 52 70 40 00
Henriette Gausel, HR Manager
Telephone: 52 70 40 00
Haugesund, NO, 5529