Bilal Ahmed
Ajax,Canada
Summary
Dynamic leader with extensive experience at the Ministry of Transportation Ontario, excelling in operational leadership and project management. Proven track record in enhancing safety performance and compliance, achieving zero deficiencies in inspections. Skilled in risk assessment and team building, driving continuous improvement in marine operations and stakeholder engagement.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Head of Marine Operational Services
Ministry of Transportation Ontario
Kingston, ON
10.2024 - Current
- Lead and oversee year-round, 24/7 ferry operations, ensuring the consistent delivery of high-quality customer service, adherence to service standards, and effective public and stakeholder engagement.
- Provide expert leadership, operational oversight, and strategic guidance in a dynamic, evolving marine environment, ensuring ferry services remain efficient, responsive, and compliant.
- Manage multiple concurrent projects, including audits, procurement processes, compliance initiatives, and policy updates, ensuring timely, cost-effective, and high-quality outcomes.
- Prioritize operational assignments and manage workloads to maintain optimal efficiency while ensuring full compliance with occupational health and safety standards.
- Respond effectively to unplanned service interruptions and emergencies, implementing risk management and recovery strategies to restore operations safely and efficiently.
- Prepare and contribute to capital planning, budget development, and executive reporting, including the preparation of briefing materials, presentations, and operational updates.
- Support and contribute to strategic planning and performance management initiatives, ensuring emerging issues are addressed promptly and organizational goals are met.
- Serve as the Designated Person Ashore (DPA) under Marine Safety Management System Regulations, acting as the direct liaison between vessel operations and senior leadership.
- Ensure full compliance with applicable legislation and regulations, including those issued by Transport Canada (TC), Classification Societies, Recognized Organizations, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), and the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).
- Oversee the development, implementation, administration, and continuous improvement of the Safety Management System (SMS), including procurement of software for document control, distribution, and preventive maintenance tracking.
- Coordinate and implement best practices in marine regulatory compliance, incident management, and stakeholder relations to drive operational excellence and continuous improvement.
- Promote and reinforce a proactive safety culture among vessel crews and terminal teams, emphasizing compliance, accountability, and best practices in all operations.
- Lead comprehensive incident investigations, ensuring timely documentation, root cause analysis, and the implementation of corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
- Oversee and contribute to safety audits and risk assessments as part of the multi-year Ferry Service Plan, integrating procedural evaluations and stakeholder input.
- Direct the planning and coordination of emergency preparedness initiatives, including the development of severe weather response strategies and execution of inter-agency emergency simulations.
- Oversee the development and continual refinement of emergency management protocols, ensuring coordinated responses to emergencies, adverse weather, and other operational disruptions, in close collaboration with emergency services and the Canadian Coast Guard.
- Conduct regular assessments of training needs, ensuring all marine staff maintain up-to-date certifications and credentials aligned with operational and legislative standards.
- Design, implement, and oversee comprehensive training programs and scenario-based emergency drills to ensure crew preparedness, competency, and regulatory alignment.
- Ensure marine personnel meet all training and credentialing requirements by developing and executing structured, standards-based training plans.
- Lead the development and procurement of a marine simulator and associated training program to enhance operational readiness and crew competency.
- Foster a culture of high performance and continuous improvement by mentoring, empowering, and developing staff at all levels.
- Lead staffing and workforce planning efforts, including recruitment, performance evaluations, training, and compliance with all organizational and regulatory policies.
- Manage 150+ unionized staff, including scheduling, coaching, performance management, and disciplinary processes, in consultation with Labour Relations.
- Cultivate and maintain strong working relationships with key stakeholders including Transport Canada, the Transportation Safety Board (TSB), the Canadian Ferry Association, classification societies, municipalities, and other partner agencies.
- Lead communication and public relations strategies, including messaging for service disruptions and emergencies, and resolution of passenger complaints and claims.
- Develop and implement structured processes to address public and stakeholder complaints, including the investigation and review of passenger claims related to property damage or personal injury.
- Maintain expert knowledge of all relevant marine legislation, regulations, and industry developments, and provide timely, informed operational advice in a high-stakes environment.
Director of Operations
Great Lakes Pilotage Authority
Cornwall, ON
09.2023 - 10.2024
- Supervised 84 plus unionized personnel including marine pilots, dispatchers, and administrative staff, ensuring resource optimization, high performance, and service continuity across all operational districts.
- Directed day-to-day marine pilotage operations via the central Dispatch Centre, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant service delivery across Canadian and international waterways.
- Evaluated work performance, identifying opportunities for efficiency improvements and cost savings.
- Prepared and managed operational budgets tracked dispatching expenditures, approved overtime and travel, and implemented cost-control initiatives.
- Provided strategic leadership aligned with the organization's goals, advised executive management, and submitted analytical reports on safety, compliance, and operational performance.
- Oversaw compliance with Safety Management System (SMS) regulations and acted as the primary liaison with regulatory authorities on matters related to marine safety and operational standards.
- Developed and executed the Safety Management System (SMS) and Fatigue Risk Management Plan (FRMP), significantly reducing operational risk and liability exposure.
- Led internal and external audits, inspections, and assessments in alignment with TC and USCG regulations.
- Chaired the Pilotage Quality Assurance Committee and oversaw full-mission bridge simulator assessments to validate pilot competence and adherence to quality standards.
- Conducted pilot boat inspections, verified safety documentation, and ensured readiness for emergency response, including man-overboard drills and recovery simulations.
- Initiated and led recruitment, training, and contract negotiations to build a skilled, cost-effective workforce.
- Managed grievance procedures, disciplinary actions, and labour relations within a unionized environment, reducing escalation and resolving disputes constructively.
- Led multi-year operational and capital planning, including the preparation of RFPs, contract oversight, and financial forecasting to support strategic investments.
- Implemented training plans, SOPs, and emergency readiness programs; conducted scenario-based exercises to reinforce operational safety and staff preparedness.
- Served as lead contact for USCG, CCG, port authorities, terminal operators, shipping agents, and other stakeholders on all operational and compliance matters.
- Ensured compliance with federal legislation including the Pilotage Act, Canada Shipping Act, Marine Personnel Regulations, OHSA, Canada Labour Code, and Navigation Safety Regulations.
- Standardized pilot scheduling and traffic coordination practices to meet regional demands while controlling overtime and associated costs.
- Monitored contractor performance (e.g., pilot boats, taxis, gangway services) and enforced accountability through service-level evaluations and follow-up.
- Directed risk assessments through participation in Pilotage Risk Management Methodology (PRMM) reviews and Compulsory Pilotage Area evaluations.
- Submitted detailed safety, operations, and financial reports to the CEO/COO, enabling evidence-based decisions and long-term strategy alignment.
- Undertook special projects focusing on initiatives with potential financial benefits or cost savings. Monitored service levels and responded promptly to concerns, safeguarding satisfaction and revenue.
- Conducted workforce planning, succession management, and skills gap assessments to maintain operational readiness and ensure future leadership capacity.
- Conducted a comprehensive analysis and presented a long-term and short-term strategic plan to optimize GLPA operations. The plan includes standardizing bargaining agreements, upgrading hardware/software, integrating AI technology, transitioning to cloud computing, implementing VOIP communication systems, and establishing training standards.
- Spearheaded modernization initiatives include VOIP communication, dispatch system upgrades, cloud migration, and digital training platforms.
- Conducted incident investigations related to safety, injury, or environmental damage; managed corrective actions and reporting mechanisms to prevent recurrence.
- Represented GLPA in labour relations, contract negotiations, and grievance resolution, working closely with unions and internal corporate advisors.
Director Marine Operations
City Cruises by Hornblower
Toronto, ON
09.2019 - 09.2023
- Headed the Marine Department, leading the development and execution of strategic initiatives to ensure safe, efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective marine operations, while delivering exceptional guest experiences onboard.
- Served as the Authorized Representative and primary liaison with Transport Canada, responsible for all fleet matters related to safety, emergency response, operational compliance, audits, and inspections.
- Designed and implemented a comprehensive Safety Management System (SMS), including, Fleet-wide Operational Manuals, Emergency Procedures, Vessel-Specific Protocols, Accident/Incident Investigation manual, SOPEP and environmental response plans
- Conducted a full GAP analysis across operational areas to identify compliance shortfalls, procedural inefficiencies, and safety improvement opportunities.
- Developed and executed a Fleet Revitalization and Replacement Plan, including lifecycle cost analysis, vessel condition assessments, and capital planning.
- Prepared a comprehensive Business Plan to modernize the fleet, resulting in 21% revenue growth, Enhanced customer satisfaction and Net Promoter Scores (NPS), Improved safety performance and inspection results.
- Managed all aspects of financial operations, including revenue generation, expense control, budgeting, forecasting, capital expenditures, and strategic financial reporting.
- Delivered regular performance and compliance dashboards to senior leadership, supporting data-driven decision-making and operational accountability.
- Oversaw the procurement and commissioning of two new passenger vessels with a combined capital value of CAD 21 million, from concept through construction, certification, and deployment.
- Administered over CAD 10 million in capital projects, including vessel drydocking’s, major refits, renovations, and safety upgrades.
- Successfully reflagged U.S.-registered commercial passenger vessels to Canadian-flagged, SOLAS-compliant, classed vessels under Transport Canada and RINA.
- Achieved zero mechanical breakdowns between 2021–2024 by implementing a robust preventive maintenance program and digital asset tracking system.
- Attained zero deficiencies in all external and Transport Canada and Class inspections for three consecutive years, reducing from a prior average of six per vessel per inspection cycle.
- Led the daily operations of a seven-vessel fleet, ensuring safe scheduling, dispatch, compliance, and maintenance across all units.
- Developed and managed crew training programs, onboard assessments, emergency response drills, and regulatory drills to maintain operational readiness and certification compliance.
- Negotiated and finalized key agreements with vendors, technicians, and shipyards, optimizing contract value and operational efficiency.
- Built and sustained effective partnerships with classification societies, port authorities, government agencies, and industry stakeholders, ensuring alignment on safety, infrastructure, and service delivery goals.
- Defined and tracked key performance indicators (KPIs) related to safety, cost, and service delivery, presenting regular updates to executive leadership.
- Contributed to long-term marine strategic planning initiatives aligned with government priorities for sustainability, modernization, and transportation innovation.
- Promoted a strong safety culture and respectful workplace practices, ensuring alignment with Ontario Public Service (OPS) standards and organizational values.
Relief Master, Chief and Second Officer, Sea Trainer
BC Ferries
Vancouver, BC
03.2018 - 09.2019
- Exercised adaptability in managing operational budgets, skillfully allocating funds for fuel, maintenance, and supplies while adhering to budgetary constraints. Implemented innovative cost-saving opportunities and optimized resource allocation to enhance financial efficiency.
- I strategically utilized my experience to plan optimal routes, meticulously considering factors such as fuel consumption and weather conditions, to execute voyages with maximum efficiency and minimal expenses and ensure cargo's safe and timely delivery.
- As a ship captain, my duties encompassed overseeing passenger management and ensuring their safety and comfort onboard. This included implementing and enforcing safety protocols, conducting regular safety drills, and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards to safeguard passengers' well-being.
- Supervising passenger services and amenities to ensure a pleasant and comfortable experience throughout the voyage. This involved coordinating with onboard staff to address passenger needs, managing entertainment and dining facilities, and resolving any issues during the journey.
- Address issues raised during the voyage, ensure a secure and enjoyable environment and uphold high standards of safety and service excellence. Activate the recovery plan as required.
- I handled loading and unloading operations to ensure efficient cargo handling and minimize turnaround times. Additionally, I optimized cargo distribution and storage to maximize vessel capacity and revenue generation.
- I demonstrated proficiency in identifying and mitigating various risks, including weather, navigation, piracy, and regulatory compliance. I implemented proactive measures and contingency plans to safeguard the vessel, crew, and financial interests.
- Maintained compliance with safety, environmental, and international regulations, ensuring strict adherence to rules, regulations, and standards to avoid fines, penalties, and reputational damage.
- Prepared clear and accurate financial reports documenting expenses, revenue, and voyage performance. Analyzed financial data to identify trends, assess profitability, and support informed decision-making.
- Exercised leadership in ensuring ship staff were trained and equipped to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies, with established contingency plans and coordination with authorities. Prioritized the safety and well-being of crew and vessel while minimizing financial impacts during crises.
- Advanced from Second Officer to Relief Master within nine months, concurrently attaining a position as a SEA trainer, imparting expertise in vessel operations, company procedures, and protocols to new hires.
- Maintained high safety standards, chaired the vessel Health and Safety Committee, reviewed company safety, operations, and management systems, and implemented safe working practices to ensure compliance with industry regulations.
- Supervised passenger boarding and disembarkation, loading and unloading operations, fire/safety equipment supervision, and scheduling vessel safety inspections.
- Under my command, I achieved company safety goals with zero accidents and fostered a strong working relationship between the vessel and terminal operations team.
Captain (Valemax and Capesize)
Bernhard Schulte Ship-management Ltd.
, Worldwide
02.2015 - 09.2017
- Effectively oversaw the ship's daily operations, ensuring smooth functioning and full compliance with international standards for safety, occupational health, security, and environmental protection. Led the implementation and periodic review of onboard safety and operational policies aligned with Safety Management System (SMS) requirements.
- Actively engaged with stakeholders including government authorities, cargo shippers, receivers, charterers, brokers, and port agents to foster effective communication, ensure smooth port turnaround, and support collaborative maritime operations.
- Conducted thorough investigations into onboard accidents and incidents, determining root causes and recommending corrective and preventive actions. Ensured regulatory and insurance reporting compliance throughout all stages of the investigation process.
- Managed all cargo-related documentation, including preparation of Bills of Lading, Letters of Protest, and Notes of Protest. Facilitated seamless inward and outward clearance with Port, Customs, and Immigration authorities in multiple jurisdictions.
- Oversaw financial management functions onboard, including forecasting, budgeting, and expense control to support cost-effective operations and strategic financial planning. Ensured fiscal discipline and efficient resource allocation across operational areas.
- Successfully led and managed a wide range of ship-related projects, including capital improvement, drydocking, repair, maintenance, and complete vessel renovation. Oversaw refits, structural modifications, and upgrade programs to meet or exceed class and flag state requirements.
- Oversaw the construction, commissioning, and launching of a 400,000 DWT Valemax bulk carrier as the owner’s representative, making strategic decisions and ensuring the vessel met all regulatory, operational, and survey readiness requirements, including close-up inspections and hull condition assessments.
- Ensured complete vessel compliance with national, flag state, classification society, and international regulatory frameworks. Conducted internal audits and vessel inspections related to ISM Code, ISPS Code, ISO 14001, and ISO 9001. Verified the effectiveness of policies and procedures through regular reviews and updates.
- Performed detailed risk assessments for critical onboard operations. Supervised cargo handling, loading, and unloading to ensure safety and regulatory compliance. Maintained proactive engagement with major classification societies such as Lloyd’s Register (LR), DNV, Germanischer Lloyd (GL), and RINA for inspection coordination and compliance assurance.
- Coordinated closely with Protection & Indemnity (P&I) Clubs for cargo damage assessments, claims handling, and incident response. Ensured accurate documentation and communication during claims and investigations.
Chief Officer (Valemax and Capesize)
Bernhard Schulte Ship-management Ltd.
, Worldwide
08.2008 - 02.2015
- Planned and coordinated weekly, monthly, and quarterly operational activities to ensure alignment with broader organizational safety, compliance, and performance objectives.
- Fostered a strong safety culture across the team by promoting awareness and ensuring thorough understanding of all safety-related procedures under the ISM Code.
- Participated as a core member of the technical team overseeing the construction, testing, commissioning, and operational readiness of the 400,000 DWT Valemax bulk carrier, supporting delivery of one of the world’s largest vessels.
- Authored detailed vessel-specific procedures and commissioning protocols, including emergency preparedness, operations manuals, and company standards to guide the safe and effective launch of a newbuild vessel.
- Ensured ongoing compliance with the Code of Safe Working Practices and all applicable occupational health and safety regulations, supporting a proactive and preventative safety environment.
- Led the enhancement of the vessel’s safety committee operations, introducing and monitoring improved safety protocols and crew welfare initiatives.
- Directed onboard maintenance programs and supervised cargo operations to support safe, efficient, and compliant vessel performance.
- Conducted detailed risk assessments for high-risk operations and implemented effective control measures to reduce hazards and maintain safe working conditions.
- Led and coordinated cargo loading and discharge activities for diverse vessel types, including Bulk Carriers, RoRo, Container Ships, Project Cargo, Oil Tankers, Car Carriers, and General Cargo vessels.
- Executed independent and third-party cargo surveys, including pre-loading inspections, post-discharge assessments, and compliance documentation to ensure cargo condition and regulatory adherence.
- Managed cargo documentation procedures including draft surveys, cargo tallying, IMDG cargo management, and regulatory compliance for specialized freight operations.
- Developed technical specifications for drydockings, vessel refurbishments, and upgrade projects, ensuring alignment with regulatory standards and operational requirements.
- Mentored and supervised ship officers and crew through routine onboard training programs, emergency drills, and skills development sessions to promote continuous learning and regulatory compliance.
- Oversaw the inspection, testing, and upkeep of lifesaving and firefighting appliances, ensuring equipment functionality, regulatory compliance, and crew readiness.
- Monitored cargo handling conditions before and during voyages to ensure compliance with safety regulations and cargo-specific requirements.
- Managed procurement of critical supplies, stores, and spare parts globally, ensuring quality control and timely delivery to support operational continuity.
Education
BTEC Higher National Diploma - Nautical Sciences
Blackpool & the Fylde College, Fleetwood Nautical Campus
Lancashire, UK07.2006
Marine Watchkeeping Certificate - Class 3 & 4
Singapore Maritime Academy
Singapore10.2000
Skills
- Marine Law and Management
- Project Management
- Emergency response and communications
- Ship Construction
- Structures and Maintenance
- Naval Architecture
- Operational Leadership
- Risk Assessment
- New Business Development
- Team Building and Training
- Ship Hydrostatics and Stability
- Maritime Business
- Human resource
- Lean Management
- Fiscal reports
- Port and Terminal Operations
- Operations Management
- Strategic and Capital planning
- Business Planning
- Cargo Operations
- Electronic Navigation Systems
- P&I Inspection and claims
- Budgeting
- Forecasting
- Financial Planning
- P&L Management
- Global sourcing and procurement
- Vendor partnership
- Microsoft Office 365
- Ceridian Dayforce
- QuickBooks
- BI 360
- Tidalis/Klien
- ADP
- Ultipro
- Novatime
- SAP (Concur)
- Trindocs
- Safety Culture
- UKG
- Citrix
- Planned Maintenance software
Certification
- Certificate of Competency Class Master Mariner Apr-2018
- Passenger Safety Management Apr-2018
- Specialized Passenger Safety Management Apr-2018
- IMDG Dangerous Goods (DG Level 3) Apr-2018
- Occupational Health and Safety Apr-2018
- Leadership and Managerial skills Mar-2018
- Marine Advanced First Aid Mar-2017
- STCW Basic Safety Mar-2022
- Advanced Fire Fighting Mar-2022
- Ship Security Officer Oct-2013
- Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities Jun-2016
- Shipboard Safety Officer Jan-2011
- Marine Accident and Incident Investigation Jan-2011
- Risk Assessment and Risk Management Jan-2011
- International Safety Management (ISM) Nov-2000
- Throughout my career, I have completed a broad range of external and in-house training programs in leadership, management, information technology, conflict resolution, workplace harassment prevention, gender equality, diversity and inclusion, occupational health and safety, employee engagement, and effective communication.
Languages
English (Fluent), Punjabi (Native), Urdu (Native), Hindi (Conversational), Currently learning the French language.
Timeline
Head of Marine Operational Services
Ministry of Transportation Ontario
10.2024 - Current
Director of Operations
Great Lakes Pilotage Authority
09.2023 - 10.2024
Director Marine Operations
City Cruises by Hornblower
09.2019 - 09.2023
Relief Master, Chief and Second Officer, Sea Trainer
BC Ferries
03.2018 - 09.2019
Captain (Valemax and Capesize)
Bernhard Schulte Ship-management Ltd.
02.2015 - 09.2017
Chief Officer (Valemax and Capesize)
Bernhard Schulte Ship-management Ltd.
08.2008 - 02.2015
BTEC Higher National Diploma - Nautical Sciences
Blackpool & the Fylde College, Fleetwood Nautical Campus
Marine Watchkeeping Certificate - Class 3 & 4
Singapore Maritime Academy
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