“The Covid situation has presented the biggest challenge I’ve known…but things are slowly going the right way now and things will get easier.”
How long have you worked at Maersk Supply Service and what was your starting position?
I joined in December 2002 as a Third Officer. So, a long time! I took a short break between 2008-9, when I worked for Solstad – I’d heard good things about the Norwegian company, so I wanted to give that a try and see it for myself.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your time with MSS? How did you manage this?
The Covid situation has presented the biggest challenge I’ve known: the uncertainties of crew changes, the lengthy assignments…it’s been tough.
The only way I can help is to keep people updated as soon as there’s a development, even if that means being the bearer of bad news. But the uncertainty is the worst thing, it’s difficult for anyone to deal with. Of course, the crew can see when I am on the bridge proactively trying to ease the situation. Things like visas are out of my hands, but what I can do is keep asking questions and following up.
What excites you the most about your role?
The fact that it varies with hands-on operations and planning upcoming operations. I look forward to waking up every morning to see what changes will happen during the day
What has been your greatest achievement in Maersk Supply Service?
For me personally, this has been getting to be captain on an I-class vessel. Maersk Involver is my first vessel as captain, I had started onboard her as Newbuilding as a Chief Officer Officer so she is definitely my favourite vessel.
What goals are you working towards?
I’m always trying to improve myself and my knowledge as captain. And to ensure the safety of so many crew and to foster and maintain positive relationships with both crew and clients.
If you had some advice for new seafarers joining MSS, what would that be?
The long quarantine situation is not the new normal. Things are slowly going the right way now and things will get easier. Also, once they get settled in, I’d always recommend that junior officers try to get experience of both SSVs and AHTSs before making up their minds as to which route to pursue.
Name: Thomas Fríðálvur Jespersen
Title: Captain
Nationality: Faroese
Located: Angola
“Always trying to improve myself and my knowledge as captain.”
“Supporting vessel dockings onsite has allowed me to experience procurement on a whole new level – it is definitely where the real action is!”
“It is interesting to work as a leader because I’m able to support the development of others and follow their progress”
“The most interesting aspect of my job is probably the mix of building relations with our clients and understanding their needs, all while gaining an understanding of our regional markets.”
“Every time our team concludes a project, I feel I am directly contributing to the development of our Company, the local economy and the world.”
“The most interesting part of my job as a Chief Officer is being in direct contact both with the operational aspect and the management team being able to contribute with practical decisions of the vessel.”
“What I love most about Maersk Supply Service is the feeling of shared purpose held by all employees. It makes my work life very meaningful to be able to connect with my colleagues sharing one common goal – to make Maersk Supply Service a leader in solving the energy challenges of tomorrow.”