Designated Person Ashore (DPA)

About the role

The Designated Person Ashore (DPA) is responsible for developing and maintaining the Safety Management System (SMS) in line with the ISM Code and SOLAS Chapter IX, providing shore‑based emergency support and ensuring regulatory compliance for vessels.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the Safety Management System (SMS) according to ISM Code and SOLAS Chapter IX.
• Conduct SMS audits, manage incident investigations and ensure timely closure of non‑conformities.
• Provide 24/7 shore‑based emergency support and maintain regular communication with vessel management.
• Monitor compliance with SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW, ISPS Code and Flag State requirements.
• Coordinate vessel inspections, Port State Control preparations, class surveys and regulatory clearances.
• Monitor vessel documentation, crew certification, maintenance, safety performance and regulatory compliance.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Studies, Naval Architecture or equivalent maritime qualification.
• Minimum 5–10 years of experience in maritime operations, shipping management or related field.
• Valid Maritime Officer Certificate in accordance with STCW or equivalent qualification.
• ISM Code training and certification with strong knowledge of international maritime regulations.
• Experience in SMS audits, incident investigation, root cause analysis and corrective action management.
• Strong leadership, communication, crisis management and problem‑solving abilities; availability for 24/7 on‑call duty.

Required skills

• ISM Code
• SMS audits
• Incident investigation
• Root cause analysis
• Corrective action management
• SOLAS compliance
• MARPOL compliance
• STCW compliance
• ISPS Code compliance