“About a year ago, I was looking for an internship. Earlier, I’d finished a traineeship as a shipping agent and then as an executive assistant for a grain company. Now I wanted to see and learn from the other side. That’s why I contacted several shipping companies, including Wagenborg. I remember it well: when I called Wagenborg, reception put me straight through to Koos (Zumkehr, Chartering Director). He invited me over to talk about the possibilities. Shortly after that, I started as Chartering Operator for mainly the V-type vessels.

Gain experience

I came from Nantes to Delfzijl to gain experience in the shipping business. Now, looking back on my first year at Wagenborg I can say I’ve learned a lot! Although I am far away from family and friends and Dutch is not an easy language for me, I feel comfortable at Wagenborg. I really like the spirit and atmosphere at the Chartering department and the way we work together. It’s just like a big family. The management is engaged with the people working there and are open to ideas for improvements. I also like the freedom we have to do new things and pursue opportunities. Chances are there and we can use them as opportunities. Being able to improve their skills means that people really become committed faster.

Work from Madrid

My biggest opportunity for the near future? Well, I’ve been given the opportunity to work for Wagenborg from Madrid. So I will exchange the Delfzijl headquarters for WAVE Shipping, our branch office in Madrid. From there – together with Jose Luis Guerra, our local director and colleague – I will work operations-wise for the French market and French-speaking countries. I will also work to strengthen the commercial position of Wagenborg in France and the western Mediterranean. My contact with the colleagues in Delfzijl will remain close and on a regular basis.

Opportunities

For now, I would like to thank everybody for their support and willingness to educate, combined with the opportunities that I’ve been given in this great company with its family values.”