Shipping spares globally involves navigating different restrictions, procedures and documentation requirements per country. Working with colleagues and freight forwarders teaches me essential practical lessons like which customs require specific paperwork or unusual permits. And I can honestly say as I approach my five year anniversary with the company, I have found not just a job but a role where procurement is truly rewarding.
My day typically starts with emails containing requisitions from vessels received overnight. Each requisition signals a need onboard needing shore-based support.
The process is systematic yet demands care. I review each requisition then send requests for quotations to local and international suppliers. When quotations arrive, the real analytical work begins.
I evaluate each quote, not just by price but by quality: which supplier offers genuine parts, which provides OEM equipment, and how costs compare. Before forwarding recommendations to technical for approval, I outline the best options based on quality and cost.
Once approved, I issue the purchase order but my job continues. I track order status, liaise with suppliers, coordinate collection points and plan the most efficient dispatch routes.
The Art of Strategic Consolidation
Procurement becomes strategic when consolidating orders. If several orders come from China, we avoid individual shipments. I maintain a list of orders and work with freight forwarders to gather all items at one location before dispatch.
The aim is to identify the best port offering affordable shipping and favourable customs. This logistical puzzle of timing and cost directly benefits the company’s bottom line.
Delivery doesn’t end the process. The vessel signs the delivery note, which I cross-check against the purchase order. When the supplier’s invoice comes, I verify it matches delivery notes and purchase orders. Quantities must fit packing lists and costs align.
Only then do I arrange a proforma to send to accounts for payment. Every step has checks, as mistakes waste money and could delay critical maintenance.
Rewards Beyond the Transaction
What I find most rewarding is the knowledge I am building and seeing procurement’s impact on company success.
At the same time, I have also picked up other skills, like coordinating life-saving appliance services. This shows how working here allows me to expand upon what I can do.
If I had to sum up this company in three words they would be family, challenge and opportunity.
Family because colleagues genuinely support one another. Good relationships are vital as toxic environments destroy focus and productivity. Here, support is offered freely whenever needed, naturally fostering cooperation.
The role is challenging in a good way. Procurement and logistics cover vast areas with numerous specialisms to explore. New issues arise constantly, requiring creative solutions and pushing growth. Without embracing challenges, progress stalls.
Opportunity abounds for professional development. Expanding knowledge across product categories, logistics software and markets motivates continual learning and growth.
Noel Salazar Procurement Officer, Maryam Shipmanagement DMCC
