Trainee Fleet Manager

Netherlands

Windcat is a leading provider of safe and efficient crew transfer services to the offshore industry, operating at the forefront for more than 20 years. With a growing fleet of over 55 Crew Transfer Vessels (CTVs), 3 Commissioning Service Operation Vessel (CSOV) and 1 Multi-Purpose Accommodation Support Vessel (MPASV) - and several newbuilds under construction - Windcat plays a key role in supporting offshore projects worldwide. As part of CMB.TECH, one of the largest listed and diversified maritime groups in the world, you'll get more than just a job title - you'll join a team dedicated to shaping the future of offshore energy.

We are looking for a Trainee Fleet Manager to join our Operations team, supporting the safe, efficient, and compliant running of our UK and EU fleet operations.

This is a hands-on operational role, acting as the key point of contact for assigned ports and sites. You will support vessel operations, crew coordination, client communication, and day-to-day logistics, while ensuring all activities are carried out safely, efficiently, and in line with company procedures and regulatory requirements.

As a Trainee Fleet Manager, you will play an important role in maintaining operational continuity, supporting technical and commercial activities, and helping to drive consistency across our regional operations.

This role is based on a 4-day working week (32 hours) with a rotating shift pattern between early and late shifts:

• Early shift: 06:00 – 14:00

• Late shift: 10:00 – 18:00

You will also be required to provide on-call cover on alternate weekends as part of a shared rota.

A company work van is provided for business use only. You will commute to the office and then collect the vehicle for operational duties.

As our Trainee Fleet Manager, you will:

• Act as the main point of contact for vessel operations, clients, and crew within assigned regions
• Coordinate vessel movements, port operations, crew logistics, customs, and site activities
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, supporting long-term partnerships
• Represent Windcat in client meetings and on-site operations
• Ensure all activities comply with QHSE standards, company procedures, and regulatory requirements
• Support vessel performance monitoring and day-to-day operational issue resolution
• Work closely with Technical Managers/Superintendents to plan and support technical and engineering activities
• Monitor vessel maintenance systems (MARAD), certification expiry dates, and critical maintenance tasks
• Support coordination of external contractors including divers, cranes, and marine services
• Assist in managing weather-related standdowns and operational planning adjustments
• Support operational budgeting, cost control, and monitoring of expenditure against forecasts
• Manage local purchasing, logistics, and supplier coordination in line with procurement policies
• Validate crew timesheets and support invoice processing in coordination with crewing teams
• Support crew logistics, accommodation, scheduling, and emergency staffing requirements
• Maintain regular communication with vessel crews to support planning and operational clarity
• Address day-to-day crew performance and conduct matters in line with company processes, escalating where appropriate
• Maintain accurate operational records, site manuals, and fleet manager reports for handovers and management review
• Support incident, downtime, and operational reporting as required
• Assist with audits and ensure follow-up actions are completed and documented
• Promote a strong safety culture through active engagement, vessel visits, and safety walkarounds
• Support and participate in port safety meetings and client safety forums
• Act as a local liaison and first responder support in the event of incidents, in line with emergency procedures
• Conduct random vessel inspections to ensure compliance with company standards and safety management systems
• Support staff wellbeing by promoting a positive working environment and encouraging engagement with wellbeing initiatives
• Remain on-call during working shifts and provide weekend cover on a rota basis
• Support preparation of new operational sites ahead of vessel mobilisation

Essential:
• Previous experience in an operational, maritime, logistics, or coordination role
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Excellent communication skills and confidence dealing with clients and crews
• High attention to detail and a proactive, problem-solving approach
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel)

Desirable:
• Experience within offshore, marine, or wind energy sectors
• Familiarity with vessel operations, port logistics, or maritime compliance
• Experience using operational systems such as maintenance or document control platforms (e.g. MARAD)

If you are looking to develop your career in offshore operations and want a varied, hands-on role with real responsibility across fleet performance, crew coordination, and client engagement, we’d love to hear from you.