Strategic Planning Manager

About this role

APM Terminals

APM Terminals is a key part of the A.P. Moller–Maersk Group, enabling global trade by operating some of the world’s most advanced ports and terminals. APM Terminals Elizabeth is one of the most strategically important terminals in North America and a centerpiece of APM Terminals’ and Maersk’s long‑term growth strategy. Located at the heart of the Port of New York and New Jersey, the terminal plays a critical role in supporting global trade across the U.S. East Coast.

Today, Terminal Elizabeth is undergoing a significant transformation and multi‑year modernization effort—one of the largest and most complex operational projects in the APM Terminals network. This includes major investments in infrastructure, systems, equipment, operating models, and workforce capability, all aimed at creating a safer, more resilient, and higher‑performing terminal.

Are you the person who can take our terminal to the next level by organizing operations strategically and with a focus on the future? APM Terminals is a global leader in port and terminal management and part of the A.P. Moller–Maersk Group. We operate advanced terminals around the world, enabling global trade through safe, efficient, and sustainable operations. At APM Terminals, we believe our people are our competitive advantage. We foster a culture of safety, accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement—offering meaningful opportunities to grow in a fast‑paced, operational environment.

With our ambitious modernization program increasing terminal capacity by 40%, this is a unique opportunity to join us at a time of transformation and help anchor critical leadership capability within our organization.

Appetizer At APM Terminals, a global leader in port and terminal operations, we enable global trade and drive sustainable growth. What drives us forward is a mindset of always improving — observing how work happens, identifying what creates value, and removing what gets in the way. We constantly look for smarter, simpler, and safer ways of operating. If you thrive in environments where people value learning and are committed to continuously improve daily operations, join us and be apart of our journey.

What We Can Offer At APMT Terminals, we foster a dynamic learning and training culture that empowers our employees to excel. Our commitment to improvement is driven by Lean principles, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to develop their skills and advance their careers. Experience a diverse, multinational workplace where your operational insights directly influence how we work. • 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

The Role As Terminal Planning Manager, you will play a central role in shaping how our terminal operates today and evolves for the future. You will be responsible for developing and executing operational planning strategies that improve safety, efficiency, customer experience, and profitability. This role is key to supporting our ambitious modernization journey, including a significant capacity expansion and the integration of new technologies and systems.

You 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, you will translate strategy into executable, data‑driven operational plans that strengthen our competitive position.

Key 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

What We Are Looking For • Continuous improvement mindset: we are looking for someone who brings a strong mindset of continuous improvement – someone who is naturally curious, committed to solving problems at the root, and driven to make things better every day

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; advanced education is an advantage

• 5+ years of experience in operational planning and people leadership within complex, asset‑intensive environments; port or terminal experience is a plus

• 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

Job Location: Elizabeth, NJ Salary: $115,000 – $130,000K   Benefits:   Full time employees are eligible for Health Insurance, Paid Time Off, 401 K   Match   and more  

DIMENSIONS: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to

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