Testimonials

Interview

Thuy Linh NGUYEN, Logistics  Assistant

1/ What has been your career path so far?

I arrived from Vietnam in 2014. I then completed an “Applied Foreign Languages” degree with a specialization in Japanese and international trade. I then decided to go on to a master degree in international business and then completed two internships during my final year. It led me with conviction to follow a business school training to benefit from better quality courses and especially to have the opportunity for a work-study program. I therefore chose a Specialized Master in International Purchasing Management with KEDGE on a work-study basis with LOUIS DREYFUS ARMATEURS (LDA).

2/ Why did you choose LDA?

I chose the LOUIS DREYFUS ARMATEURS Group because it is a very influential company in a sector that I didn’t know much about. By choosing a sector that was new to me, I knew that I would have the chance to discover new things and to “challenge” myself every day, much more than if I had chosen a company that I already feel an affinity for.
In addition, I was very impressed by the listening skills of Ms. Julie Wantuch, from the HR department of the LDA Group. I felt understood from our very first discussions. The work environment is very important to me and even though the work is hard and stressful, I feel good in this Group.

3/ Could you tell us more about your current role / your missions?

My position is focused on two areas: logistics and purchasing.
As a logistics assistant, I am in charge of the shipment and the follow-up of equipment deliveries dedicated to the ships as well as the preparation of commercial and pro-forma invoices in compliance with customs codifications and regulations in force of the country of destination. I also have purchasing tasks such as sourcing and selecting suppliers and parts.
I particularly appreciate the responsibilities that the company gives us. There is a strong feeling of confidence from LDA and that makes me want to challenge myself.

4/ Could you name 3 must-have qualities for this job?

I think the qualities needed for this job are organization, stress resistance and very good communication skills.

5/ What are your hobbies and interests?

I enjoy watching American and Japanese movies, discovering new restaurants and bakeries with new flavors, and traveling.

6/ What is your motto?

You have to aim at the moon, because at least if you fail you will end up in the stars.

Interview

Michael Mel, General Accountant

1/ What has been your career path so far?

I discovered accounting during my studies and especially during my various professional experiences. I started in Oil & Gas sector for GE ENERGIE GROUP for two years as a general accountant. I then joined the world of entertainment through the FIMALAC GROUP for three years at the same position and then at PASQUIER during one year when I was in charge of several SMEs and TPE in various sectors. I also worked at ISS group as general accountant, then as a Treasurer for the BOULES ET BILLES association in Boulogne-Billancourt for two years. Afterwards I joined the Real Estate industry at BNP PARIBAS REAL ESTATE and was responsible for various OPCI and SCPI for a year before joining the LOUIS DREYFUS ARMATEUR Group as a general accountant.

2/ Could you tell us more about your current role / your missions?

I am general accountant at the Accounting Department of LDA Group Headquarters in Suresnes. My missions are to respect and ensure that accounting law as well as all the conventions and rules governing the financial activity of the company are duly applied. The objective is to make the processing of financial information and data more reliable chronologically but also to make the real and faithful image of the company’s heritage reliable for the preparation of summary documents.

3/ What do you like the most in this job?

I am passionate about accounting! It’s a financial information tool that facilitates decision support regarding corporate policy, management and business strategy. It is really rewarding to support the Group’s strategy and action plans. Furthermore, I like to analyze and justify the accounts!

4/ Could you name 3 must-have qualities for this job?

I would say rigor, organization and analytical mind.

5/ Are you a land or sea person?

Sea, without hesitation!

6/ What are your hobbies and interests?

Football, gastronomy, and travel.

7/ What is your motto?

Carpe diem and especially if you think about this health crisis.

Interview

Jacob Housley, Port Manager at LDPL Middle East

1/ What has been your career path so far?

As a dedicated enthusiast of Port and Logistics Management, I have continually strived to improve my knowledge and skill sets by stepping outside my comfort zone at every opportunity, whilst studying to maintain best practices. This has led to gaining broad experience in countries such as Australia, Singapore and U.A.E., with leading dynamic teams in many different settings including port management, port service provider, port regulator, bulk export-shipping terminal, domestic/international shipping and logistics, and management of global supply chain portfolios for commodities and freight contracts.

2/ Could you tell us more about your current role / your missions?

In collaboration with the Senior Management team, my role is to define the port organization, personnel structure, port service provider requirements, and any need of materials, goods required for a proper and efficient port management and control.

3/ How did your position evolve in the Group?

I joined the team whilst the project was transitioning from commissioning to operational phase and when Covid-19 restrictions were imposed. The ability to adapt and provide support during challenging times was required. LDPL trust and empower team members to not only strive towards business excellence, but also provide the opportunities to achieve it.

4/ What do you like the most in this job?

The ability to assist the team to reach their full potential.

5/ Could you name 3 must-have qualities for this job?

Ability to develop mutually beneficial relationships, passion, and a continual Improvement mind set.

6/ Any anecdote or major fact you would like to share about your job?

We are operating and maintaining a greenfield project for the first coal-fuelled power plant within the U.A.E. This is a wonderful achievement for LDPL and I am extremely proud of this.

7/ Are you a land or sea person?

I am a maritime professional, comfortable both on sea and land. Being of Polynesian heritage, I am definitely a sea person.

8/ What are your hobbies and interests?

I love sports, keeping fit and healthy, and spending time with my family.

9/ What is your motto?

Treat everyone as you would like to be treated.

Interview

Jeremy Ho, QHSE Manager – LDPL Middle East

1/ What has been your career path so far?

I started my second career in the maritime industry with an Offshore company in 2011. I joined them as an Operation Executive to manage a fleet of offshore vessels operating in both Singapore and Western Australia, I was then promoted to a Fleet Superintendent after three months with them. The next exciting job opportunity was with one of LDA group company as a HSE Superintendent, where I am task to prepare a new Company Management System and implementation for new build vessels operating in Indonesia. I took a strategic career move to join one of the prolific shipbuilding company as the Commercial Manager to challenge myself further in ship construction business. Finally, I am back again to LDA group company, LD Ports & Logistics to take up a total new challenge as the QHSE Manager and was task to build a new team and system from scratch.
Over the years, I had a steep learning curve, but I am lucky to get connected with many experienced people from the maritime industry and opportunities to attend regular maritime seminars. I have benefited from their inestimable sharing and did a lot of reading to support me on solving skills for overcoming challenges and obstacles along the way.

2/ Could you tell us more about your current role / your missions?

Being the QHSE Manager and DPA of the company, I am entrusted with the responsibilities for the Safety of our People as our top priority and the implementation and follow-up of our Company Management System, so that we remain committed to a process of sustainable development and continual improvement.
The continuous support and commitment from all Individuals and our Management and are the key importance success for QHSE Department’s mission. It is a never-ending journey nor any holidays for Safety. We are just must be here for Safety of our People.

3/ How did your position evolve in the Group?

Promoting a Just Culture and not just a non punitive response to people’s mistakes. Leading by example is one of the best ways to influence the people around us. When our People are safe, our business continue efficiently, and we can impress our strong market presence.

4/ What do you like the most in this job?

I am a great fan of new challenges and the best thing in my job, there is always room for improvement and to do it even better. The professional work experience and knowledge offers the opportunity of applying subject specific theoretical knowledge to a real-life situation. Just to name one, risk management.

5/ Could you name 3 must-have qualities for this job?

The 3Ps in short.
Patience – we need to make correction and convince our people to cultivate a safe working mentality.
Perseverance – we need continued effort and determination to achieve our QHSE objectives.
People-Orientated – we need to invest time to listen, understand and focus on the situation before finding a good solution with all the department.

6/ Any anecdote or major fact you would like to share about your job?

Sometimes we need to really scratch our head to balance an effective communication with crew who might be less inclined in English during training. Thanks to technology such as translation/voice App that comes in handy.

7/ Are you a land or sea person?

I am on land.

8/ What are your hobbies and interests?

Travel and Reading. Virtual Touring might be a safer option now during Pandemic.

9/ What is your motto?

The word impossible means I M POSSIBLE.

Podcast 🎙️ 🎧

Do you wish to learn more about newbuilding at Louis Dreyfus Armateurs Group?

So, take a time to listen to the podcast by Pierre-Arthur Fortin, our Newbuilding engineer at EPI  Engineering, Projects, Innovation department!

Click here!

Podcast made by Cluster Maritime Français.

Interview

Sandra OKAH, Quality Control / Client Manager at OPENR

1/ Could you tell us about your academic background and career path so far?

I have a Bachelor’s degree in Geology and a Master’s degree in Mining and Petroleum Engineering. After a few months as a Geological Engineer in Cameroon, I received an offer to work in Belgium as a Prevention Advisor on a construction site. This was my first experience in the QHSE field. After a year with this company, I decided to move to France and studied for a second Master’s degree in Quality, Environment and Safety in Industry and Services at the University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté. As part of my studies, I joined OpenR in 2017 on a work-study contract. I work for the company now as a Quality Control Manager and Client Manager.

2/ Why did you choose this job and what do you do on a daily basis?

While working for a mining company in Cameroon, I quickly realised the importance of QHSE in a company and how important it was to implement and promote a comprehensive and healthy QHSE culture. Mineral prospecting is very much exposed to the three principles of QHSE, particularly health and safety, but we can also see the impact of our activity on the environment. In my opinion, it was important to strike a balance between delivering high quality service while protecting our workers’ safety and reducing our environmental footprint.
My role revolves around the QHSE management system (quality control, HSE receptions, safety instructions, occupational risk assessments, accident analysis, HSE documentation updates, etc.) and customer portfolio management.

3/ Could you name 5 must-have qualities for this job?

Integrity, self-sufficiency, versatility, good organisation skills and, of course, good interpersonal skills.

4/ What are your hobbies and interests?

I am passionate about travelling, yoga and photography. At least once a year, I travel to a place I have never been to. Travelling takes me to amazing places and people, and my camera helps me bring back these memories with me.

5/ What do you like the most about your job?

In my job, versatility and commitment. When you are part of a small and growing business, it is a big advantage. I like having the opportunity to work on a wide variety of topics and be actively involved in the company’s QSE policy.
In a broader sense, being part of a team / company which works for a good cause – “green” energy – is extremely rewarding.

6/ How do you implement HSE procedures into OPENR’s operations?

Three steps are necessary to implement a HSE procedure within OPENR.
A preliminary analysis / study is carried out, taking into account any particular context (regulations, activity, environment, etc.). The next step is to draft a project. The project is presented to the whole team with a 5-day consultation period over which team members can provide feedback and ask questions. The procedure is updated if necessary, approved in a final version and circulated to all employees. With all the national and international regulatory changes, a real challenge for us is to keep the documentation up to date and ensure that information is communicated within the company to everyone involved.

7/ Any anecdote or major fact you would like to share about your job?

The first time I climbed to the top of a wind turbine was amazing. I felt like I was on top of the world and the view was incredible!

******

Thank you Sandra for this great job testimonial!

Interview

Thuy Linh NGUYEN, Logistics  Assistant

1/ What has been your career path so far?

I arrived from Vietnam in 2014. I then completed an “Applied Foreign Languages” degree with a specialization in Japanese and international trade. I then decided to go on to a master degree in international business and then completed two internships during my final year. It led me with conviction to follow a business school training to benefit from better quality courses and especially to have the opportunity for a work-study program. I therefore chose a Specialized Master in International Purchasing Management with KEDGE on a work-study basis with LOUIS DREYFUS ARMATEURS (LDA).

2/ Why did you choose LDA?

I chose the LOUIS DREYFUS ARMATEURS Group because it is a very influential company in a sector that I didn’t know much about. By choosing a sector that was new to me, I knew that I would have the chance to discover new things and to “challenge” myself every day, much more than if I had chosen a company that I already feel an affinity for.
In addition, I was very impressed by the listening skills of Ms. Julie Wantuch, from the HR department of the LDA Group. I felt understood from our very first discussions. The work environment is very important to me and even though the work is hard and stressful, I feel good in this Group.

3/ Could you tell us more about your current role / your missions?

My position is focused on two areas: logistics and purchasing.
As a logistics assistant, I am in charge of the shipment and the follow-up of equipment deliveries dedicated to the ships as well as the preparation of commercial and pro-forma invoices in compliance with customs codifications and regulations in force of the country of destination. I also have purchasing tasks such as sourcing and selecting suppliers and parts.
I particularly appreciate the responsibilities that the company gives us. There is a strong feeling of confidence from LDA and that makes me want to challenge myself.

4/ Could you name 3 must-have qualities for this job?

I think the qualities needed for this job are organization, stress resistance and very good communication skills.

5/ What are your hobbies and interests?

I enjoy watching American and Japanese movies, discovering new restaurants and bakeries with new flavors, and traveling.

6/ What is your motto?

You have to aim at the moon, because at least if you fail you will end up in the stars.

Interview

Michael Mel, General Accountant

1/ What has been your career path so far?

I discovered accounting during my studies and especially during my various professional experiences. I started in Oil & Gas sector for GE ENERGIE GROUP for two years as a general accountant. I then joined the world of entertainment through the FIMALAC GROUP for three years at the same position and then at PASQUIER during one year when I was in charge of several SMEs and TPE in various sectors. I also worked at ISS group as general accountant, then as a Treasurer for the BOULES ET BILLES association in Boulogne-Billancourt for two years. Afterwards I joined the Real Estate industry at BNP PARIBAS REAL ESTATE and was responsible for various OPCI and SCPI for a year before joining the LOUIS DREYFUS ARMATEUR Group as a general accountant.

2/ Could you tell us more about your current role / your missions?

I am general accountant at the Accounting Department of LDA Group Headquarters in Suresnes. My missions are to respect and ensure that accounting law as well as all the conventions and rules governing the financial activity of the company are duly applied. The objective is to make the processing of financial information and data more reliable chronologically but also to make the real and faithful image of the company’s heritage reliable for the preparation of summary documents.

3/ What do you like the most in this job?

I am passionate about accounting! It’s a financial information tool that facilitates decision support regarding corporate policy, management and business strategy. It is really rewarding to support the Group’s strategy and action plans. Furthermore, I like to analyze and justify the accounts!

4/ Could you name 3 must-have qualities for this job?

I would say rigor, organization and analytical mind.

5/ Are you a land or sea person?

Sea, without hesitation!

6/ What are your hobbies and interests?

Football, gastronomy, and travel.

7/ What is your motto?

Carpe diem and especially if you think about this health crisis.

Interview

Jacob Housley, Port Manager at LDPL Middle East

1/ What has been your career path so far?

As a dedicated enthusiast of Port and Logistics Management, I have continually strived to improve my knowledge and skill sets by stepping outside my comfort zone at every opportunity, whilst studying to maintain best practices. This has led to gaining broad experience in countries such as Australia, Singapore and U.A.E., with leading dynamic teams in many different settings including port management, port service provider, port regulator, bulk export-shipping terminal, domestic/international shipping and logistics, and management of global supply chain portfolios for commodities and freight contracts.

2/ Could you tell us more about your current role / your missions?

In collaboration with the Senior Management team, my role is to define the port organization, personnel structure, port service provider requirements, and any need of materials, goods required for a proper and efficient port management and control.

3/ How did your position evolve in the Group?

I joined the team whilst the project was transitioning from commissioning to operational phase and when Covid-19 restrictions were imposed. The ability to adapt and provide support during challenging times was required. LDPL trust and empower team members to not only strive towards business excellence, but also provide the opportunities to achieve it.

4/ What do you like the most in this job?

The ability to assist the team to reach their full potential.

5/ Could you name 3 must-have qualities for this job?

Ability to develop mutually beneficial relationships, passion, and a continual Improvement mind set.

6/ Any anecdote or major fact you would like to share about your job?

We are operating and maintaining a greenfield project for the first coal-fuelled power plant within the U.A.E. This is a wonderful achievement for LDPL and I am extremely proud of this.

7/ Are you a land or sea person?

I am a maritime professional, comfortable both on sea and land. Being of Polynesian heritage, I am definitely a sea person.

8/ What are your hobbies and interests?

I love sports, keeping fit and healthy, and spending time with my family.

9/ What is your motto?

Treat everyone as you would like to be treated.

Interview

Jeremy Ho, QHSE Manager – LDPL Middle East

1/ What has been your career path so far?

I started my second career in the maritime industry with an Offshore company in 2011. I joined them as an Operation Executive to manage a fleet of offshore vessels operating in both Singapore and Western Australia, I was then promoted to a Fleet Superintendent after three months with them. The next exciting job opportunity was with one of LDA group company as a HSE Superintendent, where I am task to prepare a new Company Management System and implementation for new build vessels operating in Indonesia. I took a strategic career move to join one of the prolific shipbuilding company as the Commercial Manager to challenge myself further in ship construction business. Finally, I am back again to LDA group company, LD Ports & Logistics to take up a total new challenge as the QHSE Manager and was task to build a new team and system from scratch.
Over the years, I had a steep learning curve, but I am lucky to get connected with many experienced people from the maritime industry and opportunities to attend regular maritime seminars. I have benefited from their inestimable sharing and did a lot of reading to support me on solving skills for overcoming challenges and obstacles along the way.

2/ Could you tell us more about your current role / your missions?

Being the QHSE Manager and DPA of the company, I am entrusted with the responsibilities for the Safety of our People as our top priority and the implementation and follow-up of our Company Management System, so that we remain committed to a process of sustainable development and continual improvement.
The continuous support and commitment from all Individuals and our Management and are the key importance success for QHSE Department’s mission. It is a never-ending journey nor any holidays for Safety. We are just must be here for Safety of our People.

3/ How did your position evolve in the Group?

Promoting a Just Culture and not just a non punitive response to people’s mistakes. Leading by example is one of the best ways to influence the people around us. When our People are safe, our business continue efficiently, and we can impress our strong market presence.

4/ What do you like the most in this job?

I am a great fan of new challenges and the best thing in my job, there is always room for improvement and to do it even better. The professional work experience and knowledge offers the opportunity of applying subject specific theoretical knowledge to a real-life situation. Just to name one, risk management.

5/ Could you name 3 must-have qualities for this job?

The 3Ps in short.
Patience – we need to make correction and convince our people to cultivate a safe working mentality.
Perseverance – we need continued effort and determination to achieve our QHSE objectives.
People-Orientated – we need to invest time to listen, understand and focus on the situation before finding a good solution with all the department.

6/ Any anecdote or major fact you would like to share about your job?

Sometimes we need to really scratch our head to balance an effective communication with crew who might be less inclined in English during training. Thanks to technology such as translation/voice App that comes in handy.

7/ Are you a land or sea person?

I am on land.

8/ What are your hobbies and interests?

Travel and Reading. Virtual Touring might be a safer option now during Pandemic.

9/ What is your motto?

The word impossible means I M POSSIBLE.

Podcast 🎙️ 🎧

Do you wish to learn more about newbuilding at Louis Dreyfus Armateurs Group?

So, take a time to listen to the podcast by Pierre-Arthur Fortin, our Newbuilding engineer at EPI  Engineering, Projects, Innovation department!

Click here!

Podcast made by Cluster Maritime Français.

Interview

Sandra OKAH, Quality Control / Client Manager at OPENR

1/ Could you tell us about your academic background and career path so far?

I have a Bachelor’s degree in Geology and a Master’s degree in Mining and Petroleum Engineering. After a few months as a Geological Engineer in Cameroon, I received an offer to work in Belgium as a Prevention Advisor on a construction site. This was my first experience in the QHSE field. After a year with this company, I decided to move to France and studied for a second Master’s degree in Quality, Environment and Safety in Industry and Services at the University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté. As part of my studies, I joined OpenR in 2017 on a work-study contract. I work for the company now as a Quality Control Manager and Client Manager.

2/ Why did you choose this job and what do you do on a daily basis?

While working for a mining company in Cameroon, I quickly realised the importance of QHSE in a company and how important it was to implement and promote a comprehensive and healthy QHSE culture. Mineral prospecting is very much exposed to the three principles of QHSE, particularly health and safety, but we can also see the impact of our activity on the environment. In my opinion, it was important to strike a balance between delivering high quality service while protecting our workers’ safety and reducing our environmental footprint.
My role revolves around the QHSE management system (quality control, HSE receptions, safety instructions, occupational risk assessments, accident analysis, HSE documentation updates, etc.) and customer portfolio management.

3/ Could you name 5 must-have qualities for this job?

Integrity, self-sufficiency, versatility, good organisation skills and, of course, good interpersonal skills.

4/ What are your hobbies and interests?

I am passionate about travelling, yoga and photography. At least once a year, I travel to a place I have never been to. Travelling takes me to amazing places and people, and my camera helps me bring back these memories with me.

5/ What do you like the most about your job?

In my job, versatility and commitment. When you are part of a small and growing business, it is a big advantage. I like having the opportunity to work on a wide variety of topics and be actively involved in the company’s QSE policy.
In a broader sense, being part of a team / company which works for a good cause – “green” energy – is extremely rewarding.

6/ How do you implement HSE procedures into OPENR’s operations?

Three steps are necessary to implement a HSE procedure within OPENR.
A preliminary analysis / study is carried out, taking into account any particular context (regulations, activity, environment, etc.). The next step is to draft a project. The project is presented to the whole team with a 5-day consultation period over which team members can provide feedback and ask questions. The procedure is updated if necessary, approved in a final version and circulated to all employees. With all the national and international regulatory changes, a real challenge for us is to keep the documentation up to date and ensure that information is communicated within the company to everyone involved.

7/ Any anecdote or major fact you would like to share about your job?

The first time I climbed to the top of a wind turbine was amazing. I felt like I was on top of the world and the view was incredible!

******

Thank you Sandra for this great job testimonial!