Tampa, FL
General Manager
General Manager – Tug Fleet Operations
Location: Tampa, Florida
Summary:
An established marine towing company is seeking a General Manager to lead operations across its tug fleet. Reporting directly to the owner, this role is responsible for fleet performance, crewing, vessel maintenance, safety and regulatory compliance, and operational cost control. This role is centered on running a safe, reliable, and efficient operation. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on maritime leader, ideally with a towing background, who can bring structure and consistency to a growing, owner-led business.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead day-to-day operations of a multi vessel fleet, including dispatch, vessel assignments, and service reliability
- Oversee crew hiring, training, scheduling, and rotation planning to keep the fleet fully and safely manned
- Own the Safety Management System and ensure compliance with USCG, Subchapter M, OSHA, and environmental regulations
- Work with port engineering to plan and manage vessel maintenance, drydocking, repairs, and capital projects
- Develop and manage operating budgets, controlling fuel, maintenance, and labor costs
- Monitor fleet performance and report on operational KPIs, including uptime, safety, utilization, and cost
- Prepare for and manage internal and external audits, inspections, and vetting
- Implement risk management practices and emergency response protocols
- Support the owner on customer service levels and operational input into commercial decisions
- Build a strong, accountable shoreside and vessel team and a culture of safety
Qualifications:
- 10+ years in the towing industry, with at least 5 years in a senior shoreside or command role
- Background as a sailing Master of Towing Vessels or a previous towing operations manager strongly preferred
- Proven experience managing crews, dispatch, and vessel maintenance across a multi-vessel fleet
- Working knowledge of Subchapter M, TSMS/SMS, and USCG inspection and compliance requirements
- Strong budgeting and cost-control skills, and comfort working in an owner-led environment
- Bachelor’s degree in relevant field preferred
- Credentials: USCG license (Master of Towing Vessels) and STCW preferred
#operations #towing #executive