Designated Person Ashore (DPA) – Maritime Safety Management

About the role

The Designated Person Ashore (DPA) ensures effective communication between vessels and shore management, overseeing safe and environmentally responsible vessel operations. Reporting directly to senior management, the DPA supports the continuous improvement of the company’s Safety Management System (SMS) in line with international maritime regulations.

Key responsibilities

• Maintain, implement and continuously improve the SMS according to the ISM Code and applicable regulations.
• Monitor vessel safety, pollution‑prevention, and compliance with statutory and class requirements.
• Coordinate internal and external ISM audits, inspections and ensure corrective actions are closed.
• Provide direct support to Masters, ensuring they have access to the DPA for safety‑critical decisions.
• Track regulatory developments (IMO, Flag States, Classification Societies) and advise vessels on required changes.

Required profile

• Relevant maritime qualification or degree with strong knowledge of the ISM Code and international regulations.
• Practical experience in ship operations, marine safety or ship management; tanker experience preferred.
• Fluent written and spoken English with strong reporting and communication skills.
• Ability to lead, challenge unsafe practices and manage emergency situations calmly.

Required skills

• ISM Code
• ISPS Code
• MLC 2006
• SOLAS
• MARPOL
• STCW
• Tanker operations
• Flag State requirements
• Classification Society requirements
• Incident investigation
• Root‑cause analysis