Strategic Planning Manager

Maersk•Elizabeth, NJ

1d•Onsite

About The Position

APM Terminals, a key part of the A.P. Moller–Maersk Group, operates advanced ports and terminals globally, enabling global trade through safe, efficient, and sustainable operations. APM Terminals Elizabeth, located in the Port of New York and New Jersey, is undergoing a significant multi-year modernization effort, including major investments in infrastructure, systems, equipment, operating models, and workforce capability, aimed at creating a safer, more resilient, and higher-performing terminal. This modernization program will increase terminal capacity by 40%. The company fosters a culture of safety, accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement, offering meaningful opportunities for growth in a fast-paced, operational environment. The Terminal Planning Manager will play a central role in shaping how the terminal operates today and evolves for the future. This position is responsible for developing and executing operational planning strategies that improve safety, efficiency, customer experience, and profitability. The role is key to supporting the ambitious modernization journey, including a significant capacity expansion and the integration of new technologies and systems. The manager will lead a team of 3–4 Assistant Managers and report directly to the Strategy and Planning Director, working closely with operations, technology, and commercial stakeholders to translate strategy into executable, data-driven operational plans that strengthen the competitive position.

Requirements

Continuous improvement mindset: naturally curious, committed to solving problems at the root, and driven to make things better every day
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
5+ years of experience in operational planning and people leadership within complex, asset-intensive environments
Strong analytical capability with experience using data, KPIs, and systems to drive operational decisions
Clear, collaborative communicator who can align stakeholders, influence decisions, and lead teams through change

Nice To Haves

Advanced education is an advantage
Port or terminal experience is a plus

Responsibilities

Lead high-volume terminal planning activities, supporting more than 1.4 million annual container lifts and 12+ weekly vessel calls through advanced operational planning
Own and optimize berth planning, yard layout, appointment strategies, capacity planning, and ocean carrier SLA performance
Develop short- and long-term operational strategies that integrate safety, productivity, and technology optimization across terminal operations
Use TOS-driven insights and data analytics to model, simulate, and optimize operational scenarios, asset utilization, and throughput
Govern standardized processes by maintaining planning documentation, process maps, validations, and operational performance reviews
Strengthen customer relationships by leading operational review meetings focused on service reliability, improvement initiatives, and long-term partnership value
Coach and develop Assistant Managers, building strong operational leadership capability and a sustainable talent pipeline

Benefits

Dynamic learning and training culture that empowers employees to excel
Commitment to improvement driven by Lean principles, ensuring opportunities to develop skills and advance careers
Experience a diverse, multinational workplace where operational insights directly influence how work happens
Access structured Lean and continuous improvement programs that strengthen problem-solving, planning, and leadership capability
A balanced environment that supports sustainable performance, accountability, and long-term career growth
Opportunities to grow through internal mobility, short-term assignments, and cross-functional exposure
Competitive, market-aligned compensation with attractive secondary benefits
Health Insurance
Paid Time Off
401 K Match