Niroshini Dhanapala
Imbulgoda, Sri Lanka
Summary
Experienced Marine Personnel Officer with a strong background in crew management, compliance, and HR operations within the maritime industry. Skilled in recruitment, training, and ensuring regulatory compliance with international maritime laws. Proven ability to lead teams, optimize personnel processes, and maintain high crew retention rates.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
SENIOR MARINE PERSONNEL OFFICER
Mercmarine Group of Companies
Colombo
05.2021 - Current
- Managed seafarers' recruitment, selection, and deployment across multiple vessel types.
- Ensured compliance with MLC, STCW, and flag state regulations for all crew members.
- Developed and implemented crew retention strategies, reducing turnover by 85%.
- Oversaw crew payroll, contracts, and appraisals, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
- Coordinated crew training and development programs to enhance skills and certifications.
- Liaised with shipowners, port authorities, and regulatory bodies to resolve personnel issues.
- Led crisis response initiatives for crew emergencies, including medical evacuations, and repatriations.
MARINE PERSONNEL OFFICER
Mercmarine Group of Companies
Colombo
01.2012 - 04.2021
- Established and maintained strong relationships with crew members, resulting in improved retention rates
- Implemented a streamlined recruitment process resulting in a 20% reduction in hiring time
- Coordinated training programs resulting in a 15% increase in overall staff performance
- Led a team in managing crew rotations and resolving scheduling conflicts for 500+ personnel
- Successfully managed crew recruitment and deployment for a fleet of 20+ vessels
ASSISTANT TO TECHNICAL SUPERINTENDENT
Mercmarine Group of Companies
Sri Lanka & Germany
11.2005 - 12.2011
- Assisted Technical Superintendent in daily operations, ensuring smooth workflow and timely completion of projects
- Coordinated communication between technical team members, suppliers, and clients, ensuring seamless collaboration
- Managed documentation and record-keeping for maintenance schedules, equipment inventory, and safety protocols
LOGISTICS & ADMINISTRATION EXECUTIVE
Ceylon Grain Elevators Ltd.
Colombo
06.2000 - 01.2005
- Managed and coordinated logistics operations, including transportation, inventory control, and vendor management
- Successfully implemented cost-saving initiatives, resulting in a decrease in operational expenses by 10%
- Oversaw administrative tasks, such as managing organizational budgets, scheduling meetings, and coordinating employee trainings
- Developed and maintained strong relationships with key clients, ensuring customer satisfaction and repeat business
Education
OTHM Level 7 - Diploma in Strategic Management And Leadership
OTHM
United Kingdom09-2025
CERTIFICATE IN COUNCELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY -
Institute of Mental Health
Colombo, Sri LankaEXECUTIVE DIPLOMA IN SECRETARIAL PRACTICE -
Oxford College of Business
Colombo, Sri LankaSkills
- Vessel Management , Crew Management & Deployment
- Maritime Regulations & Compliance (MLC, STCW, ISM Code)
- Recruitment & Retention Strategies
- Payroll & Contract Administration
- HR Policies & Performance Management
- Training & Development
- Crisis Management & Conflict Resolution
- Liaison with Flag States & Port Authorities
Volunteer Experience
- Executive Committee member, WISTA (Women's International Shipping & Trading Association), Sri Lanka, 05/01/21, Present
- Member / Fundraiser, Little Hearts Foundation, Little Hearts is a national fundraising project to build a Cardiac and Critical Care Complex at Lady Ridgway Children's Hospital.
Languages
- English, Advanced
- Sinhala, Native
Personal Information
- Date of Birth: 04/04/1975
- Nationality: Sri Lankan
Timeline
SENIOR MARINE PERSONNEL OFFICER
Mercmarine Group of Companies
05.2021 - Current
MARINE PERSONNEL OFFICER
Mercmarine Group of Companies
01.2012 - 04.2021
ASSISTANT TO TECHNICAL SUPERINTENDENT
Mercmarine Group of Companies
11.2005 - 12.2011
LOGISTICS & ADMINISTRATION EXECUTIVE
Ceylon Grain Elevators Ltd.
06.2000 - 01.2005
OTHM Level 7 - Diploma in Strategic Management And Leadership
OTHM
CERTIFICATE IN COUNCELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY -
Institute of Mental Health
EXECUTIVE DIPLOMA IN SECRETARIAL PRACTICE -
Oxford College of Business
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