Designated Person Ashore, Tanker Shipowner, Mumbai

Job Title: Designated Person Ashore (DPA)

Essential

• Certificate of Competency as Master (FG) or Chief Engineer (FG) Class I
• Valid DPA Certificate

Desirable

• Additional QHSE or safety management certifications

Experience

Sea Experience Essential

• Minimum 5 years of sea service on tankers
• At least 2 years in a senior officer rank (Master or Chief Engineer) on oil / chemical / gas tankers

Sea Experience Desirable

• Minimum 10 years of sea service
• At least 2 years as Master on tankers

Shore Experience Essential

• Minimum 6 years of shore-based experience as Designated Person Ashore

Shore Experience Desirable

• 5 years of shore experience as DPA

Job Purpose

The Designated Person Ashore (DPA) acts as the critical link between the Company and its managed vessels, ensuring that the Safety Management System (SMS) is effectively implemented, maintained, and continuously improved in compliance with the ISM Code, MARPOL, SOLAS, OCIMF, and other applicable statutory and industry requirements.

The role is responsible for monitoring safety and pollution prevention aspects of shipboard operations and ensuring that adequate resources and shore support are provided to maintain safe and compliant operations both at sea and ashore.

Key Responsibilities

1. ISM Code Compliance & Safety Management

• Ensure effective implementation and understanding of the Safety Management System across the fleet
• Review, update, and improve the SMS in line with regulatory changes and industry best practices
• Conduct ship visits and internal audits to verify ISM compliance
• Ensure timely reporting, investigation, and closure of non-conformities, incidents, near misses, and observations

2. Communication & Operational Support

• Act as the primary point of contact between vessel Masters and shore management for safety and pollution prevention matters
• Provide guidance and support to shipboard personnel to ensure safe and efficient vessel operations
• Liaise with Flag Administrations, Classification Societies, Port State Control, and external auditors as required

3. Emergency Preparedness & Response

• Ensure emergency response procedures are established, maintained, and tested through drills and tabletop exercises
• Serve as a key member of the Emergency Response Team (ERT)
• Lead incident investigations, prepare reports, and ensure effective corrective and preventive actions

4. Safety Culture & Continuous Improvement

• Promote and strengthen a positive safety culture across ship and shore teams
• Analyze safety data, incident trends, and fleet performance metrics to identify risks
• Initiate safety campaigns, training programs, and continuous improvement initiatives

5. Compliance & Regulatory Liaison

• Ensure compliance with international, national, and company-specific safety, security, and environmental regulations
• Liaise with vetting inspectors, charterers, and third-party auditors
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of tanker regulations and evolving maritime legislation

Knowledge

• Strong understanding of ISM Code, MARPOL, SOLAS, STCW
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 / 14001 / 45001 standards
• Knowledge of TMSA framework and vetting processes
• Training in incident investigation and root cause analysis
• Proficiency in MS Office and QHSE management systems

Skills

• Strong leadership and decision-making abilities
• In-depth understanding of tanker operations and associated risks
• Competence in auditing, risk assessment, and compliance monitoring
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong attention to documentation and reporting

Attitude & Personal Attributes

• Self-motivated, proactive, and result-oriented
• Strong teamwork and people management skills
• Ability to work effectively in a demanding, performance-driven environment

Other Requirements

• Willingness to travel occasionally to vessels and international locations
• Availability on a 24/7 basis as part of the emergency response framework