Interview with Capt. Ian Rosario – Head MSC Operations

An interview by Tony Amatulli

Two weeks ago I had the pleasure of sitting down with Captain Ian Rosario, the Head Operations at MSC.

 TA: Dear Ian, thank you for your time. Can you briefly tell me about your career in shipping?

 IA: I joined sea in 1992 as a Deck Cadet. Thereafter I wrote the Competency Exams at various levels to rise in rank as a Third Officer, Second Officer, Chief Officer and Master (Captain). I was Captain for nearly seven years; in 2010 I was tasked to take up the responsibility of managing operations for South Africa.

 TA: Operation management is an important part of maritime traffic supervision: what is the most difficult and the most attractive side of your job?

 IA: My career at sea empowered and trained me to deal with all challenging tasks and situations; in essence nothing in the job is actually difficult. The attractive side is the varied challenges faced every day. Each day poses its own encounters and these challenges keeps the interest peaked at all times. Being involved with many individuals is very stimulating as each person has their own limitations and strongholds.

 TA: What are your primary duties and responsibilities?

 IA: Ensuring timeous berthing, sailing of ships across South African ports, with quickest possible turnaround times. Ensuring shortest possible transit times for trans-shipment cargo, trans-shipped via South African ports. Planning Cargo, ensuring the stability aspect is respected as well as the cargo intake is optimized and ensuring effective measures are in place to control costs to the Company.

 TA: From negotiating skills, management of diverse work groups and financial acumen: which is the most important in your job?

 IA: I think all the above features are inter-related and equally important to effect a successful business module. None can be excluded to enhance productivity and garner efficiencies.

 TA: Why is it important for Shipping Company managers to develop the efficiency of their personnel?

 IA: Developing skills and efficiencies of personnel has always been proven to be a key factor to running a successful Business House. It pays back to invest, so as to produce a proficient and resourceful organization. It enhances the responsibilities towards the tasked projects and instils a sense of empowerment.

 TA: Do you have any advice for young people wishing to pursue a career in shipping?

 IA: A career in Shipping can be quite an interesting option to pursue. Given the diverse applications, it is a career worth chasing; jobs could be sought in the Freight Forwarding, Customs Compliance, Legal, Claims, Operations, Sales and Marketing, Planning, Logistics, Human Resources, Accounts, etc. Having said that, there is no short cuts to hard work, dedication and passion!

 TA: Thank you IAN!