Project Development Manager

APM Terminals Maasvlakte II is one of the world’s most advanced and highly automated container terminals, strategically located in the Port of Rotterdam. As part of the A.P. Moller-Maersk Group and the global APM Terminals network, we actively contribute to enabling global trade and fostering sustainable economic growth.

What sets APM Terminals Maasvlakte II apart is our culture of innovation, safety and operational excellence. The Lean methodology is deeply embedded in our way of working – from continuous process improvement to cross-functional teamwork at ground level. At APM Terminals Maasvlakte II, you’ll be part of a forward-thinking, data-driven environment built on continuous improvement. Join us and contribute to a terminal that sets the global benchmark.

We are seeking a Project Development Manager to lead the engineering and development activities within the Operational Technology (OT) organization at a fully automated container terminal. This role is responsible for delivering system and automation improvements that enhance terminal performance, reliability, and operational efficiency.

The Development Manager leads a multidisciplinary team including System Development Engineers and Automation Development Engineers. Together, this team is responsible for executing projects such as new system capabilities, automation modernization initiatives, and continuous optimization of automated equipment and operational systems.

This role oversees a significant portion of the system engineering lifecycle (V-model)—from early concept development and demand intake, through requirements definition, contracting, development, testing, and ultimately delivery of new capabilities to Operations and Asset Management for acceptance and operational use.

The position requires strong leadership with the ability to stimulate/enable cross-functional collaboration both within team as with other departments, systems thinking, and the ability to translate operational needs into technical solutions that deliver measurable improvements to terminal performance.

At APMT Terminals, we foster a dynamic learning and training culture that empowers our employees to excel. Our commitment to improvement is driven by Lean principles, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to develop their skills and advance their careers. Experience a diverse, multinational workplace where your operational insights directly influence how we work.

• A project based role at an innovative workplace with a strong focus on technology and operational efficiency

• Extensive opportunities for personal development and professional training

• A safe, inclusive workplace where collaboration and engagement are key

• Career growth paths within a globally operating organization

At MVII, we invest in your growth – because your progress is our future.

• Build, lead and develop a cross-functional team of System Development Engineers and Automation Development Engineers.

• Set priorities, allocate resources, and ensure alignment with terminal strategic objectives.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, engineering discipline, and operational collaboration as well as proactivity and ownership.

• Ensure effective collaboration between engineering, operations, asset management, and external vendors.

• Lead the delivery of projects that introduce new system functionalities, automation capabilities, and equipment modernization.

• Oversee the full lifecycle of system development initiatives from concept and demand intake through implementation and delivery.

• Ensure projects are delivered according to scope, quality, timeline, and operational requirements.

• Coordinate internal teams and vendors to successfully deliver integrated system capabilities.

• Develop, own and stimulate the use of system engineering across the V-model lifecycle.

• Ensure structured execution of activities including:

  • demand intake and concept development

  • requirements engineering and solution design

  • vendor engagement and contracting or development and system integration

  • testing, validation, and operational acceptance

• Establish and maintain engineering standards, documentation practices, and governance for system development.

• Drive continuous optimization of automated equipment, control systems, and operational workflows.

• Work closely with operations and asset management teams to identify improvement opportunities that enhance throughput, reliability, and efficiency.

• Use operational data and system insights to prioritize development and optimization initiatives.

• Serve as a key interface between operations, asset management, engineering teams, and technology vendors.

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

• Master’s degree in Systems Engineering, Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related technical field.

• 8–12+ years of experience in automation, systems engineering, or industrial technology environments.

• Proven experience building, developing and leading engineering teams delivering complex system or automation projects.

• Ability to create structure, priorities and focus in a cross-functional team that is in the center of terminal developments.

• Through people-centered leadership, coaching, guiding, and motivating employees. Inspiring both the team and individuals to further develop their skills and to take ownership of their responsibilities.

• Strong understanding of system engineering practices and lifecycle management.

• Experience delivering integrated solutions across software, automation systems, and industrial equipment.

• Strong organizational leadership, stakeholder management, and communication skills.

• Experience in automated container terminals, port operations, logistics automation, or other large-scale automated industrial environments.

• Familiarity with systems such as Terminal Operating Systems (TOS), equipment control systems, PLC-based automation, or fleet management systems.

• Experience managing automation modernization or equipment upgrade programs.

• Knowledge of OT architecture, system integration, and operational optimization practices.

With your dedication and mindset, you help us become better every single day.