Supervisor, Empty Vessel Planning

Led by Rodolphe Saadé, the CMA CGM Group, a global leader in shipping and logistics, serves more than 420 ports around the world on five continents. With its subsidiary CEVA Logistics, a world leader in logistics, and its air freight division CMA CGM AIR CARGO, the CMA CGM Group is continually innovating to offer its customers a complete and increasingly efficient range of new shipping, land, air and logistics solutions.
Committed to the energy transition in shipping, and a pioneer in the use of alternative fuels, the CMA CGM Group has set a target to become Net Zero Carbon by 2050.
Through the CMA CGM Foundation, the Group acts in humanitarian crises that require an emergency response by mobilizing the Group’s shipping and logistics expertise to bring humanitarian supplies around the world.
Present in 160 countries through its network of more than 400 offices and 750 warehouses, the Group employs more than 155,000 people worldwide, including 4,000 in Marseilles where its head office is located.

Overview

The Supervisor, Empty Vessel Planning is responsible for coordinating and overseeing the efficient planning, allocation, and repositioning of empty containers on company vessels. This role ensures that empty equipment is optimally deployed across trade lanes to meet customer demand, minimize repositioning costs, and support overall network efficiency. The Supervisor works closely with terminal operators, vessel planners, trade teams, and global head office to align local execution with company strategy.

Functions and Duties

Empty Container Planning & Allocation
Develop and monitor vessel load plans for empty containers, ensuring space utilization is maximized and aligned with trade requirements.
Coordinate with global and regional equipment control teams to balance supply and demand for empty containers across ports.
Optimize container repositioning strategies to minimize cost while maintaining service reliability.

Operational Coordination
Liaise with terminals, vessel planners, and port partners to confirm stowage plans for empty containers.
Monitor daily vessel schedules and adjust empty planning as needed due to delays, weather, or operational disruptions.
Collaborate with equipment control, marine, and trade teams to address imbalances and resolve equipment shortages or surpluses.

Data & Reporting
Maintain accurate records of empty container movements, allocations, and vessel plans.
Prepare and distribute daily/weekly reports on empty container positioning, costs, and vessel utilization.
Track KPIs related to empty repositioning, equipment availability, and space usage.

Process Improvement & Compliance
Identify opportunities to streamline vessel planning processes and improve cost efficiency.
Ensure compliance with company policies, regulatory requirements, and safety standards.
Support system updates, process changes, and digital initiatives that improve vessel planning accuracy.

Container Idle Time Monitoring and Reduction:
Track and analyze container idle times at port locations, including storage, handling, and transfer delays.
Identify root causes of prolonged idle times and implement corrective actions.
Develop strategies to optimize container flow and reduce dwell times.

Leadership and Team Development:
Provide leadership and guidance to team members to achieve organizational goals and objectives.
Foster a positive and inclusive team culture that promotes collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
Identify individual strengths and areas for development, and provide coaching and mentoring to support professional growth.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Strong knowledge of container shipping operations, vessel stowage, and port logistics.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and make informed planning decisions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint); experience with vessel planning or logistics software preferred.
• Strong communication and coordination skills to work across multiple internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and adapt quickly in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work under tight deadlines.

Education & Experience

Bachelor's Degree Required

3-5 Years Industry Experience Preferred

At CMA CGM, we are committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The expected salary range for this position is $65,000 - $72,000 per year. The actual salary offered will be based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, skills, experience, and location.
In addition to base salary, this position may be eligible for:
Performance-based bonusesComprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition repayment and paid time offProfessional development opportunities
We believe in transparency and equity and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

Come along on CMA CGM’s adventure! The Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. Discrimination or harassment based upon any protected characteristics as defined by state or federal law is wholly inconsistent with our company values and will not be tolerated. Alternative application methods are available for individuals who are unable to use or access our online application system. For assistance, please contact us at [email protected]