Program Lead

Location : We are open to candidates based in Algeciras or The Hague for this role. Please note that relocation is not supported, and we are only considering applicants who are already residing in one of these two locations.

At APM Terminals, a global leader in port and terminal operations, we enable global trade and drive sustainable growth. As part of the A.P. Moller-Maersk Group, we connect economies and communities worldwide. Our success is driven by a strong commitment to LEAN methodologies, embedding continuous improvement into every aspect of our operations. Join us and be part of a team that values excellence, collaboration, and innovation.

We foster a dynamic learning and training culture that empowers our employees to excel. Our commitment to continuous improvement is driven by LEAN principles, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to develop their skills and advance their careers. Join us to be part of an innovative environment where your growth is our priority, and experience the numerous advantages of being a valued member of our team.

To accelerate the delivery of our Strategy 2030, we are evolving the COO Function to further strengthen our focus on operational excellence. Operational Technology & Analytics (OT&A) team under the COO Function will play a pivotal role in achieving our strategic goals, through simplifying how we work, strengthening our capabilities, and empowering our teams to deliver greater impact. For this purpose, we are reinforcing our focused, aligned and agile global team.

The Program Lead is responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and delivery of one or more programs or projects within the organization. This role involves managing cross-functional teams, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, and delivering results on time and within budget. The Program Lead will serve as the primary point of contact for program stakeholders and will be responsible for tracking progress, mitigating risks, and ensuring the program’s overall success.

• Lead the planning, implementation, and tracking of program activities from initiation to completion.
• Coordinate internal and external resources to ensure successful execution of program objectives.
• Develop program plans, including scope, timeline, milestones, budget, and resource allocation.
• Monitor program performance using appropriate systems, tools, and techniques.
• Identify and manage program risks, issues, and dependencies.
• Facilitate regular status meetings and reporting with stakeholders.
• Support change management and communication efforts related to the program. Drive continuous improvement in program delivery processes and outcomes.
• Lean-minded: we are looking for someone who brings a strong mindset of continuous improvement – someone who is naturally curious, committed to solving problems at the root, and driven to make things better every day.

Experience:

Solid experience (5 years +) in project management and contract management in wider portfolios and matrix organizations.

Excellent stakeholder management experience in a real-time environment (logistics, shipping, etc) and exposure to wide array of stakeholders (internal / external, shop-floor / C-Suite).

Good understanding of terminal operations, terminal equipment, automated systems and controls, or related industrial infrastructures. (preferred)

Skills:

Strong stakeholder management & communication skills – ability to establish long-term successful relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Persuasive, being able to influence colleagues and 3rd parties to reach the functional or project goals.

Strong prioritization abilities and can-do mindset - ability to motivate the teams to achieve the roadmap deliverables and to create a performance-driven organization.

Driven, self-motivating, result orientated.

High discipline – following through on actions and ensuring necessary documentation.

High quality awareness and ability to work with constant care.

Sensitive to cultural diversity and experience in a multicultural environment, in regard to colleagues, employees of vendors, and other stakeholders.

Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

Additional language (Spanish) is preferred.

Education

Business / Supply Chain Management / Engineering / Finance or similar