Project Permits Manager

About the role

Hanseatic Global Terminals (HGT), a subsidiary of Hapag-Lloyd, is part of the Sunset Consortium leading the development and modernization of Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica's main port complex on the Pacific coast. The Project Permits Manager plans, secures and maintains all permits, licences, regulatory approvals and governmental authorisations needed for the project, which is a brownfield development around an operating port. The role is site-based at Puerto Caldera.

Key responsibilities

• Set, deliver and maintain the permitting framework with the project team, contractors, third parties, the port authority and other Costa Rican regulatory bodies.
• Develop and run the permitting process so permits are delivered on time, in line with the project schedule and the start of operations planned for September 2027.
• Ensure new works permits are compatible with the port's current authorisations, coordinating with the Business Integration Manager on impacts to ongoing operations.
• Lead environmental permitting, including Environmental Impact Assessments, coordinating with the Project HSSE Manager.
• Build a network with government bodies, coordinate regulatory inspections, approvals and certifications, and secure operating licences for start-up.
• Monitor compliance with permit conditions and track permitting risks in the project risk register.
• Measure and communicate permitting status, including updates to the Integrated Master Schedule, and give structured feedback to stakeholders.
• Meet regularly with government and local bodies and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, environmental engineering, civil engineering, urban planning, architecture, environmental sciences, law, public administration or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in a similar field; prior experience in construction and/or operations permits.
• Fluent English and Spanish (written and spoken).
• Desirable: postgraduate studies in environmental management, regulatory affairs, infrastructure development or public policy; experience in concessions or PPP frameworks; exposure to the logistics and supply chain environment.

Required skills

• Detailed understanding of permitting processes for substantial construction in port environments and the Costa Rican regulatory framework (environmental, port, maritime, municipal).
• Environmental permitting and EIA processes, port and maritime regulations, construction and operational licensing.
• Microsoft Office Suite, project management software, document management systems and regulatory tracking databases; GIS and permitting tools desirable.
• Stakeholder relationship building, negotiation, communication, planning and regulatory awareness.

What we offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• A high-impact leadership role in a fast-growing terminal operator shaping its global footprint.