The planner organises or supervises all or part of the cargo-handling operations at a terminal (port operating unit), covering the technical, commercial, social and financial aspects, with a focus on quality (service, cost, lead times). They may lead or coordinate the activities of one or more operational teams.

Qualities and skills

• Attention to detail and organisational skills
• Ability to adapt
• Teamwork skills
• Responsiveness, analytical skills and decision-making ability
• Knowledge of planning tools and the characteristics of port equipment (gantry cranes, mobile cranes, etc.)
• Knowledge of port operations software
• Knowledge of team management techniques
• Knowledge of safety regulations relating to dangerous goods and the safety of property and people
• Geography of port infrastructure
• Organisation of the national and international transport chain
• Knowledge of vessel types, port regulations, freight transport and maritime law
• Knowledge of the characteristics of maritime traffic (liner services, coastal shipping, etc.)

Educational qualifications and training

Two years’ higher education in logistics or transport; a professional bachelor’s degree in logistics and port operations management; a master’s degree in supply chain management and logistics

Sectors and organisations

Mainly active in commercial seaports.

Source: LH PORT CENTER – Further information at www.lhportcenter.com