Manager Cargo & Scheduling (re-advertised) Jobs – Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC)

Job Overview

The Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) seeks an experienced Manager Cargo & Scheduling to oversee all aspects of crude oil shipping and cargo activities. This role is critical to ensuring the efficient and compliant movement of Uganda’s petroleum resources through end-to-end supply chain logistics. The successful candidate will manage vessel chartering, operations, and claims handling while adhering to international maritime regulations.

Based in Kampala, this position works closely with internal trading teams and external stakeholders to align logistics planning with commercial priorities. The role involves monitoring inventory levels and transportation timelines to optimize throughput and meet market demand. UNOC, as Uganda’s state-owned oil company, plays a pivotal role in the nation’s energy sector development.

The Manager Cargo & Scheduling will lead freight negotiations, prepare vessel enquiry sheets, and conduct market assessments to secure suitable vessels. This re-advertised position offers an opportunity to contribute to Uganda’s growing oil and gas industry while ensuring sustainable resource exploitation.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the end-to-end physical movement of crude oil, including tanker scheduling, nominations, and lifting coordination to ensure timely and efficient deliveries.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to align logistics planning with commercial and operational priorities for optimal resource allocation.
• Monitor inventory levels and transportation timelines to optimize throughput, avoid production deferrals where possible and meet market demand effectively.
• Receive and validate lifting requirements from the Marketing & Trading team, ensuring alignment with contractual entitlements and operational readiness.
• Prepare and issue Vessel Enquiry Sheets (VES) to a vetted pool of shipbrokers, clearly outlining voyage parameters, cargo specifications, and laycan windows.
• Conduct thorough market assessments to identify suitable vessels based on freight economics, vessel availability, safety records, and compatibility with loading/discharge terminals.
• Lead freight negotiations with shipowners or brokers, ensuring competitive rates, favourable charter party terms, and alignment with company risk appetite.
• Secure internal approvals for charter agreements and monitor vessel performance throughout voyages to ensure compliance with safety and operational standards.
• Handle cargo claims and disputes, working with legal and insurance teams to resolve issues promptly and minimize financial exposure.
• Ensure compliance with international maritime regulations, including IMO standards, port state control requirements, and relevant industry best practices.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential

• Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Studies, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field from a recognized institution.
• Minimum of 7 years progressive experience in oil and gas shipping, cargo operations, or maritime logistics, with at least 3 years in a supervisory role.
• Proven experience in vessel chartering, freight negotiations, and managing crude oil or petroleum product shipments in international markets.
• Strong knowledge of international maritime law, INCOTERMS, charter party agreements, and relevant shipping documentation procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze market trends, assess vessel suitability, and make data-driven decisions to optimize shipping economics and risk management.
• Proficiency in using shipping software, chartering platforms, and MS Office Suite, particularly Excel for data analysis and reporting.

Desirable

• Master’s degree in Maritime Business, International Trade, or Energy Management would be an added advantage.
• Professional certification from recognized maritime institutes such as IMO, ICS, or equivalent professional bodies.
• Experience working with national oil companies or in Africa’s emerging oil and gas markets, particularly understanding regional dynamics.
• Familiarity with Uganda’s petroleum sector policies, regulations, and the specific challenges of landlocked country oil exports.
• Knowledge of HSSE (Health, Safety, Security, and Environment) standards applicable to marine operations and cargo handling.
• Language skills in French or Arabic would be beneficial for dealing with certain international shipping partners and charterers.

What the Role Offers

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience, reflecting the seniority and strategic importance of the position within UNOC’s organizational structure.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for the employee and immediate dependents, including access to private healthcare facilities in Kampala and Entebbe.
• Housing allowance or provision of company accommodation, recognizing the need for stable living arrangements for senior professionals relocating to Kampala.
• Transport facilitation through a company vehicle or monthly transport allowance to support daily commuting and official duties within the Kampala metropolitan area.
• Generous leave entitlements including annual leave, sick leave, and maternity/paternity leave in accordance with Ugandan labor laws and company policy.
• Professional development opportunities including sponsorship for relevant short courses, workshops, and conferences in maritime logistics and energy sectors.
• Pension scheme contributions as per Ugandan regulations, ensuring long-term financial security for employees upon retirement from service.
• Performance-based bonuses tied to individual and company achievements, encouraging excellence in cargo scheduling and shipping operations management.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should submit their updated Curriculum Vitae (CV), copies of academic certificates and transcripts, professional certifications, and a cover letter detailing their suitability for the Manager Cargo & Scheduling position. Please apply now by clicking the link below.

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