Manpreet Jolly

Highly accomplished Terminal Head with over 18 years of progressive leadership in port and terminal operations. Proven ability to drive operational excellence, P&L management, and strategic planning, with expertise in CAPEX planning, stakeholder engagement, and ESG integration. Successfully commissioned and operationalized multiple terminals, achieving significant throughput increases and optimizing efficiency.

Adept at leading cross-functional teams and fostering a performance-driven culture to deliver growth and profitability in the maritime sector.

Terminal Head – BULK/BB TERMINAL at Vizag Multipurpose Terminal Pvt. Ltd. (2023-01 – Present)

• Spearheaded the conceptualization and strategic planning of the multipurpose terminal, ensuring alignment with long-term business objectives.
• Developed the complete operating philosophy covering cargo handling, equipment deployment, maintenance strategy, and customer service standards.
• Architected the organizational structure, manpower strategy, and leadership framework required for commercial operations.
• Supported CAPEX planning of 600 crores, encompassing terminal layout, equipment selection, and technical evaluations of cargo handling systems.
• Cultivated relationships with logistics companies, customs, regulatory authorities, and contractors to facilitate timely project execution.
• Instituted performance management systems, KPIs, and reporting frameworks to enable data-driven decision-making.
• Integrated ESG principles, sustainability initiatives, and safety-by-design concepts into terminal planning.
• Identified strategic business opportunities and formulated customer engagement plans to maximize future cargo throughput and profitability.
• Positioned the organization for a seamless transition from project execution to commercial operations through structured planning.

Head – CONTAINER OPERATIONS at Visakha Container Terminal Pvt. Ltd. (2019-01 – 2023-12)

• Supported terminal expansion from 0.63 to 1.3 MMT TEUs with a Capex of 780 Cr, integrating operational requirements into project planning and commissioning activities.
• Directed all terminal operations, including vessel/berth management, yard/gate operations, and equipment deployment.
• Led cross-functional teams across operations, engineering, planning, HSE, and commercial functions.
• Established productivity targets and operational KPIs aligned with terminal benchmarks.
• Controlled operating budget to an average of Rs 2800/TEU via resource allocation and operational oversight.
• Ensured adherence to statutory requirements, port regulations, and international safety standards.
• Championed continuous improvement initiatives to optimize berth productivity, equipment utilization, and workforce performance.
• Enhanced container crane productivity through performance management.
• Reduced average vessel turnaround time to 19 hours, significantly improving berth utilization and customer satisfaction.
• Strengthened operational processes, resulting in improved equipment deployment and yard efficiency.
• Achieved the highest throughput of 65,000 TEUs.
• Implemented ESG initiatives focused on energy efficiency, environmental stewardship, and safety leadership.
• Maintained strong HSE performance with Zero LTIFR through disciplined implementation of safety management systems and operational controls.

Terminal Head – BULK/BB TERMINAL at Paradip International Cargo Terminal Pvt. Ltd. (2016-01 – 2019-12)

• Successfully commissioned and operationalized brownfield terminal under my leadership.
• Held full responsibility for terminal performance, including P&L, budgeting, operational planning, and commercial strategy.
• Managed integrated port businesses with an annual revenue of approximately ₹350 Crores.
• Drove business development initiatives to attract new cargoes and strengthen customer relationships.
• Oversaw multidisciplinary teams comprising operations, engineering, commercial, finance, administration, and HSE functions.
• Developed operational budgets and financial plans to achieve business profitability and return on investment.
• Supervised the procurement of cargo handling equipment, maintenance dredging, and infrastructure improvements.
• Engaged in negotiations to secure contracts for cargo handling.
• Controlled monthly operating budgets while maintaining disciplined financial control.
• Achieved the highest throughput of 18,500 metric tons for break-bulk cargo handling.
• Cultivated customer relationships with owners, shipping companies, stevedores, and logistics providers, contributing to sustained business growth.
• Established systems, operational procedures, and performance monitoring mechanisms to improve accountability and service quality.
• Improved operational efficiency through structured planning, equipment optimization.
• Introduced continuous improvement initiatives that reduced operational inefficiencies and enhanced overall terminal performance.
• Promoted strong safety leadership and ESG initiatives, reinforcing a culture of compliance and environmental responsibility.

Regional Director – BULK/B.B. TERMINAL at West Quay port (ALBAsia pvt. ltd.) (2012-01 – 2016-12)

• Successfully commissioned a significant brownfield break-bulk terminal under the PPP model in Visakhapatnam Port Authority.
• Held full responsibility for the terminal's business performance, including P&L, business development, and operational excellence, generating an annual revenue of 275 Crores from a single-berth terminal.
• Directed marine operations, cargo handling, maintenance, and commercial functions.
• Established annual business plans, operational budgets, and productivity targets aligned with corporate objectives.
• Forged strong relationships with port authorities, customs, cargo owners, shipping companies, surveyors, stevedores, and statutory agencies.
• Developed leadership capabilities across departmental heads and implemented a performance-driven organizational culture.
• Secured fixed contracts for handling Pet Coke and granite on an annual basis.
• Instituted structured operational planning and performance measurement systems, resulting in improved asset utilization and cost optimization.
• Managed multidisciplinary teams while strengthening the safety culture and maintaining statutory compliance.
• Implemented a Terminal Operating System (TOS) specifically for the cargo handling system.
• Supported business growth through customer engagement, commercial negotiations, and operational reliability.

Head – BULK CARGO TERMINAL at Vizag Seaport Pvt. Ltd. (2009-01 – 2012-12)

• Led commercial planning and operational execution for bulk/break-bulk cargo operations from a two-berth terminal.
• Optimized operations to achieve enhanced throughput of 6.5 MMTPA cargo handling while reducing costs.
• Improved berth planning and vessel scheduling to maximize terminal utilization.
• Coordinated statutory approvals, marine services, and operational compliance with regulatory authorities.
• Prepared annual budgets and operational plans aligned with financial objectives.
• Supported maintenance dredging and equipment procurement programs.
• Implemented the TOS system.

Port Captain / Marine Superintendent at Various Shipping Companies (2007-01 – 2009-12)

• Managed the technical and operational performance of bulk and general cargo vessels.
• Supervised loading, discharge operations, and cargo quality inspections in accordance with IMSBC Code requirements.
• Conducted vessel inspections, safety audits, and statutory compliance reviews.

Shipping Officer at Various Shipping Companies (1990-01 – 2007-12)

• Gained extensive international sailing experience on bulk carriers, general cargo, and container vessels.
• Successfully participated in newbuilding supervision and vessel delivery programs.
• Managed multinational crews while upholding the highest standards of safety, navigation, and cargo operations.
• Developed a deep understanding of global shipping, marine logistics, and international trade.

MBA in Human Resource Management – Andhra University

Higher National Diploma (HND) in Nautical Science – Blackpool & The Fylde College, Fleetwood

Master Mariner -Unlimited UK

Diploma in Port Management - Lloyds, UK