At Fleet Management, over 70% of our leadership team are former seafarers. Many of our colleagues have followed a similar path, moving from ship to shore and bringing with them the skills, discipline, and passion that define our industry. Three colleagues share their experiences of transitioning onshore and explain how their seafaring experience continues to shape our work and success.
A Master’s Broad Horizon
After fifteen years sailing as a Master, Mr. Luo An moved onshore to join the dry operations team. Adjusting to life onshore meant a shift from hands-on command to wider managerial responsibility.
Luo now oversees operations for twenty vessels. He explains that the habits formed at sea guide much of his daily work.
“This office desk is now my ship,”
describing how his responsibility has expanded from one vessel to many. He still keeps a seafarer’s mindset.
“Keep your feet on the deck. Success onshore still depends on understanding your ship and your crew.”
Luo values the professionalism he finds within Fleet Management. He notes that even simple routines in the office encourage the same pride and discipline he followed at sea.
A Career Anchored by Family
Mr. Abin Joseph, now a Manager in the Technical Team, spent thirteen years at sea before choosing a shore-based career. Marriage and the arrival of his child made long voyages harder.
“Being onboard felt much longer after my marriage and the birth of my child. I wanted to be with my family full time.”
Taking on responsibility for several vessels at once was a new challenge, but structured training and a week of work shadowing gave him confidence in his role. Support from colleagues also played a key part in his transition. Abin believes that strong teamwork is essential.
“Your success depends not just on your skills but on the cooperation of your colleagues, management, and family.”
He encourages others to share experiences and learn from their teams, both in moments of challenge and moments of achievement.
A New Chapter Beyond the Engine Room
With over a decade at sea as a Chief Engineer, Mr. Jasvinder Keer joined Fleet’s Technical Team as a Vessel Manager. His interest in engineering began early.
“I was fascinated by the problem solving required at sea.”
Moving onshore meant managing multiple vessels and adapting to a fast-paced communication environment. The transition brought with it cultural and personal changes, Jasvinder sees these challenges as part of his long-term growth.
“The transition involves adapting to international cultures, languages, and way of working, but my team has been very supportive.”
For seafarers considering a shore-based role, he offers clear guidance.
“Deepen your knowledge beyond technical skills. Documentation, regulations, and communication are just as important.”
Steering the Future Together
Luo, Abin, and Jasvinder each bring their own perspective to life onshore, yet their stories share common themes. Practical experience, adaptability, and strong teamwork form the bridge between sea and shore. Their journeys show that a maritime career does not end when someone steps off the vessel. It evolves, shaped by the same drive, discipline, and curiosity that carried them across the oceans.
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