About us
Hanseatic Global Terminals (HGT) is a fully owned subsidiary of Hapag-Lloyd. Operating from Rotterdam, HGT manages a portfolio of stakes in 23 terminals and complementary logistics services across 13 countries across 5 continents: Europe, North America, South America, Asia, Africa - with plans to expand its stakes to over ~30 terminals by 2030.
Spanning key regions, its portfolio comprises port terminals and related logistics services operated by Hanseatic Global Terminals Latin America in Latin America and Florida (USA), and, in the booming Indian market, it is present through the container terminals, depots and rail business of J M Baxi, India's largest integrated terminal and logistics provider. Additionally, HGT's presence in strategic European hubs, such as Germany, France and the Mediterranean, enhances its global network and allows it to offer seamless, efficient logistics and supply chain solutions to customers worldwide.
At HGT, we are a highly motivated team of experienced international professionals who believe that growth in any partnership comes from trust and dedication. Our commitment to provide highly efficient terminal operations that are safe, sustainable, and reliable is rooted in a simple yet powerful vision: "offering exceptional service quality at all times."
The project: Hanseatic Global Terminals Aracruz port terminal:
Hanseatic Global Terminals (HGT) is embarking on an exciting new chapter with the development of Hanseatic Global Terminals Aracruz, a state‐of‐the‐art container terminal created in partnership with the Imetame Group. Following HGT's recent agreement to acquire 50% of the shares in Imetame Logística Porto (ILP), this joint venture marks a significant strategic investment in Brazil's evolving port landscape and will play a key role in strengthening global supply chain connectivity.
Located in Aracruz, Espírito Santo, the new terminal is designed to be a modern transshipment and gateway hub for the region. Expected to launch operations by mid‐2028, the facility will feature a capacity of approximately 1.2 million TEU, 750 meters of quay, advanced cargo‐handling technology, and 17 meters of water depth, enabling the efficient handling of the industry's largest vessels.
As HGT and the Imetame Group work together to build and operate this future‐ready terminal, we are assembling a team of talented professionals who will help shape the next major milestone in Brazil's port infrastructure development. The project represents an opportunity to be part of a transformational venture that will set new standards for performance, innovation, and operational excellence.
The position
The Head of IT is responsible for designing, implementing, and operating the full IT landscape required to support both the construction phase and the future operation of the terminal.
The role ensures the delivery of a secure, scalable, and standardized IT environment, aligned with HGT global standards and Imetame Group requirements, across infrastructure, networks, enterprise applications, cybersecurity, and data platforms.
During the construction phase, the position focuses on defining the IT architecture, leading vendor selection and implementation, and ensuring readiness for operations.
Over time, the role evolves into overseeing steady-state IT operations, ensuring high availability, performance, and continuous improvement.
The Head of IT reports to the Project Director during the project phase, transitioning to the Terminal/Site Managing Director closer to go-live. The role also maintains a dotted-line to the Senior Director, Global IT at HGT and to the senior IT leadership of Imetame Group.
The role is based in Brazil, site-based, with regional and occasional international travel.
Key Responsibilities
IT Strategy & Governance
* Define and implement the local IT strategy aligned with HGT global IT governance and standards.
* Establish the IT operating model (hub-and-spoke), including roles, responsibilities, and decision rights.
* Ensure alignment with corporate cybersecurity, data protection, and compliance frameworks.
* Act as the primary interface between local operations and global IT.
Technology Architecture & Implementation
* Define the end-to-end IT architecture covering:
* Data centers and cloud infrastructure
* Enterprise and OT networks
* Cybersecurity controls and monitoring
* End-user computing and collaboration tools
* Core business applications (ERP, EAM, TOS integrations, etc.)
* Lead procurement processes, including RFP/RFQ preparation, vendor evaluation, and contract negotiation.
* Oversee implementation of all IT systems, ensuring alignment with project timelines and operational requirements.
Cybersecurity & Risk Management
* Ensure implementation of cybersecurity controls aligned with global policies and frameworks (e.G., ISO 27001).
* Oversee identity and access management, endpoint protection, network security, and SOC integration.
* Conduct risk assessments and ensure mitigation plans are in place.
* Ensure compliance with local regulations and global standards.
IT Operations & Service Management
* Establish IT service management processes (incident, problem, change, and asset management).
* Implement and oversee IT Service Desk and support model (potentially 24/7).
* Ensure high availability and resilience of IT services, including backup and disaster recovery.
* Manage IT vendors, service providers, and SLAs.
Data & Digital Enablement
* Enable data platforms and reporting capabilities to support operational and financial decision-making.
* Promote data governance and data quality practices.
* Support digital and automation opportunities (including AI use cases), in coordination with the terminal OT Lead role.
Project & Stakeholder Management
* Act as a core member of the project team, aligning IT delivery with construction milestones.
* Coordinate with engineering, operations, finance, and external stakeholders.
* Communicate IT progress, risks, and performance to senior management and board-level stakeholders.
Transition to Operations
* Ensure full IT readiness for terminal go-live.
* Support transition from project phase to steady-state operations.
* Build and lead the local IT organization.
Job requirements
* 10+ years of experience in IT leadership roles, preferably in ports, logistics, or industrial environments.
* Strong understanding of port terminal operational systems and processes (e.G., TOS, yard operations, gate systems, vessel planning).
* Proven experience in large-scale IT implementations (infrastructure, applications, and integrations).
* Strong understanding of:
* IT infrastructure and cloud environments
* Enterprise applications (ERP, EAM, etc.)
* Cybersecurity and risk management
* IT service management frameworks (e.G., ITIL)
* Experience working in global, matrix organizations with distributed teams.
* Strong vendor management and procurement experience.
* Ability to operate in greenfield or transformation environments.
* Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
* Fluent in English and Portuguese.
What we offer
* Competitive salary and benefits package.
* Opportunity to shape the IT foundation of a new world-class terminal.
* High-impact leadership role in a global, fast-growing organization.
* Exposure to cutting-edge technologies in port and logistics operations.