Technical Director (Tankers) – London

An established, privately owned ship management company with a global presence is seeking a Technical Director to lead and oversee technical operations across its Tanker fleet.

The business supports a diverse portfolio of vessels and is known for its strong operational standards, long-standing client relationships, and continued growth. This role sits on the senior leadership team and plays a key part in shaping technical strategy, performance, and compliance across the fleet.

The Role

This is a senior leadership position responsible for the safe, efficient, and cost-effective technical management of the fleet, alongside oversight of technical teams and cross-functional coordination.
You will act as the central authority on all technical matters, working closely with senior stakeholders, vessel owners, and internal departments to ensure high standards of performance, safety, and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the technical operation of the fleet, ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost control
• Lead and support Fleet Managers, Superintendents, and technical teams
• Drive HSE compliance and promote a strong safety and environmental culture
• Manage and review technical budgets (OPEX/CAPEX) and approve cost planning
• Oversee dry dock planning, maintenance programmes, and vessel performance
• Monitor and resolve technical deficiencies, incidents, and non-conformities
• Liaise with class societies, shipyards, authorities, and external stakeholders
• Ensure alignment across technical, operations, legal, insurance, and finance teams
• Provide strategic input into fleet performance, upgrades, and long-term planning
• Support policy development, process improvement, and organisational growth
• Act as escalation point for critical technical and emergency situation
• Act as Environmental Management Representative (EMR)
• Drive environmental targets and ensure alignment with company and client objectives
• Oversee vetting performance and corrective actions
• Ensure compliance with international regulations, class, and industry standards

Candidate Profile

• Extensive experience in technical ship management, ideally at senior or leadership level
• Strong understanding of fleet operations, dry docking, and vessel performance
• Proven ability to lead teams and influence across multiple functions
• Commercial awareness with experience managing budgets and cost optimisation
• Confident stakeholder manager, comfortable engaging with owners, executives, and external bodies
• Background as a Chief Engineer