We are EUROGATE: a shipping company-independent container terminal operator in Europe. We are known for reliable and professional container handling services and valued for services that are essential for smooth terminal operations.
The hub of our global network and headquarters of the EUROGATE Group is the Hanseatic City of Bremen. Together with our sister company Contship Italia, we operate several sea terminals on the North Sea, the Mediterranean and the Atlantic – making us the gateway to the world for European goods traffic.
In addition to our core business of container handling, we offer comprehensive solutions that simplify port processes and speed up global transportation: Containers can be deposited, maintained and repaired with us. We develop customized packaging concepts – and provide support in the planning and implementation of intermodal transport routes.
Role Overview
The Project Director will lead the planning, execution, and delivery of a large-scale port container terminal automation program in Germany. This initial €100M+ strategic investment aims to transform the terminal into a state-of-the-art, fully automated facility, enhancing efficiency, safety, sustainability, and competitiveness in the global logistics market.
The Project Director will be responsible for overall governance, stakeholder engagement, budget control, risk management, and ensuring successful integration of advanced automation technologies with existing port infrastructure and operations.
Key Responsibilities
* Strategic Leadership
* Define and execute the project strategy, ensuring alignment with corporate goals and port authority requirements.
* Act as the single point of accountability for the project, overseeing all workstreams (engineering, IT/OT, procurement, construction, commissioning).
* Project Delivery & Governance
* Lead the end-to-end delivery of the automation program, ensuring milestones, quality, and budget targets are met.
* Implement best-practice project governance, reporting, and decision-making processes.
* Manage consortiums, EPC contractors, OEM vendors, and technology partners.
* Stakeholder Management
* Build and maintain strong relationships with port authorities, regulators, unions, technology suppliers, and logistics operators.
* Act as the public-facing representative of the project, ensuring transparent communication with internal and external stakeholders.
* Financial & Risk Management
* Control a capital budget of €100M+, ensuring cost discipline, forecasting accuracy, and financial transparency.
* Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks, particularly those related to supply chain disruptions, technology integration, and regulatory compliance.
* Technical & Operational Oversight
* Direct the integration of automation solutions (e.g., automated guided vehicles, automated stacking cranes, terminal operating systems, AI-driven scheduling).
* Ensure operational readiness, safety compliance, and seamless handover to terminal operations teams.
* Champion innovation, sustainability, and decarbonization initiatives within the project scope.
* Team Leadership
* Build and lead a high-performing, multidisciplinary project management team.
* Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.
Qualifications & Experience
* Proven track record (10+ years) delivering complex, high-value (€100M+) infrastructure or automation projects, ideally in ports, logistics, or heavy industry.
* Strong knowledge of terminal operations, r terminal technology, and automation solutions.
* Experience managing large multidisciplinary teams, contractors, and technology vendors in international environments.
* Demonstrated ability to lead within highly regulated and unionized operational contexts.
* Advanced understanding of project governance, financial control, risk management, and contract management (e.g., EPC, FIDIC).
* Strong stakeholder engagement, negotiation, and communication skills
* Degree in Engineering, Project Management, Logistics, or related field; MBA or equivalent desirable.
Key Competencies
* Strategic thinking and execution
* Commercial and financial acumen
* Technical depth in automation and digital transformation
* Cross-cultural leadership and negotiation skills
* Resilience, adaptability, and results orientation
Impact of the Role
The Project Director will play a pivotal role in delivering one of Germany’s most advanced port terminal automation projects, positioning the terminal as a benchmark for innovation and sustainability in European maritime logistics.
Salary Guide is 150,000 - 175,000 Euros Per Annum