Laytime Specialist

The Laytime Specialist is responsible for reviewing charter parties, analyzing port documentation, and preparing accurate laytime calculations to ensure timely and effective settlement of demurrage and despatch claims. The role requires a strong understanding of dry bulk operations, charter party clauses, and negotiation skills to safeguard commercial interests and support efficient voyage operations.

Main tasks and responsibilities.

Voyage & Charter Party Review: Examine voyage and time charters to identify laytime terms, exceptions, and key clauses.

Statement of Facts (SOF) Analysis: Review port SOFs, logs, and related documents to verify loading/discharging times and delays.

Laytime Calculation: Prepare accurate laytime calculations as per CP terms (WWD, shifting time, exclusions, etc.).

Demurrage & Despatch Handling: Prepare and document claims for demurrage or despatch in line with contract provisions.

Claims Negotiation & Settlement: Communicate with charterers, owners, brokers, and agents to defend, negotiate, and settle claims within timelines.

Data Accuracy & Record Keeping: Maintain precise voyage files, laytime records, and correspondence for audits and dispute resolution.

Dispute Resolution Support: Assist legal/operations teams with documentation and evidence gathering during disputes or arbitrations.

Cross-Department Coordination: Collaborate with operations, chartering, and finance teams to ensure alignment of laytime matters with business objectives.

Continuous Improvement: Identify recurring port delays or inefficiencies and propose cost-saving or operational improvements.

Education requirements: Bachelor s degree in Maritime Studies, Shipping Management, International Trade, Logistics, Commerce, or Economics.

Professional qualifications such as Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) certifications (Chartering, Dry Cargo, Legal Principles in Shipping), Lloyd s Maritime Academy course on Laytime & Demurrage, BIMCO Laytime & Demurrage Masterclass would be an added advantage.

Language requirements: Verbal & Written English proficiency

Background and experience:

6 years experience in dry bulk chartering, operations, or claims handling with a reputed ship owner, operator, or broker.

Strong understanding of charter party terms (Voyage, Time, COA) and common laytime clauses.

Familiarity with dry bulk operations (loading/discharging processes, port procedures, weather delays).

Working knowledge of international shipping law and arbitration practices related to laytime/demurrage.

Up-to-date on market practices and common port issues in key dry bulk regions.

Aware of cultural nuances in global shipping negotiations.

Competencies:

Core Competencies:

Integrity & Accountability: Uphold commitments, be trustworthy and reliable and work ethically.

Customer Focus: Understand customer need, respond in timely fashion.

Agility: Adapt to change and prioritize efficiently.

Continuous learning: Self Development and application of new knowledge.

Collaboration and Communication: Transparency, use two way communication. Engage and support others.