#9 Per Cristian Dettwiler - Destined for shoreside, Going after an MBA and starting a Wagyu Beef Farm
Summary:Gordon interviews Per Cristian with an untraditional shipping background who had a desire to work on ships from a young age. Per Cristian shares their family's seafaring legacy and their own journey from Switzerland to Norway, where they studied nautical engineering. They then joined Odgl as a cadet and spent ten years working on ships before deciding it was time to move back to shore. They joined Esper Tankers in Hamburg and later ENS tankers. Per Cristian talks about their first experience joining a vessel, their time at sea, including trips to various ports around the world, and their involvement in taking over a new vessel. They also discuss the challenges faced during the new building process and the teething issues that arise with newly launched ships. The conversation shifts towards the decision of coming ashore, with Per Cristian expressing early on that they didn't see themselves making a career at sea until retirement.Per-Cristian discusses their decision to pursue an MBA in Shipping and Logistics while working at sea, which they believe will provide better opportunities for them ashore. They also mention their involvement in a project breeding wagyu cattle and the ethical approach they take towards animal welfare. The speaker then talks about their job transition from a chief mate to a dual role as an operator and technical advisor at Sberger, eventually becoming the operations manager. They reflect on the challenges and adjustments of transitioning from ship life to office work but express satisfaction with their decision overall.The speaker reflects on their experience working at sea and the transition to shore-based work. They mention that some people choose to return to sea after a period of time ashore, while others prefer to stay on land. The speaker expresses gratitude for their current position and acknowledges the learning curve they have experienced. They discuss the challenges of managing a team and the importance of balancing guidance and freedom. The speaker also mentions how their MBA has helped them approach problems from different perspectives. They express satisfaction with their current career path and mention upcoming projects in their role. Overall, they emphasize the need for personal growth and challenge in one's career.Per Cristian discusses their experiences at sea, including a culture shock while discharging in India and witnessing amazing sunrises and sunsets. They mention the sacrifices made by seafarers, such as missing birthdays and holidays. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of the shipping industry and the often overlooked crews on board ships. The conversation touches on the recent attention given to crew members during COVID-19 and expresses gratitude for their work. The transcript ends with a friendly farewell between the speakers.Timestamp:Chapter 1: Introduction and Background00:: Pleasantries and introduction to the podcast.00:: Briefly discusses the speaker's untraditional background in shipping and their academic journey.Chapter 2: Academic Challenges and Moving Between Countries02:: Talks about struggling with studies and the impact of moving between different parts of Switzerland on academic progress.Chapter 3: Career at Sea05:: Describes the experience of working on a ship and the delay in completing studies due to a project.Chapter 4: Pursuing an MBA in Shipping and Logistics08:: Explains the decision to enroll in an online MBA program at Middlesex University to enhance career opportunities.Chapter 5: Transition from Sea to Land11:: Discusses the process of coming ashore and how the idea for a new project emerged during a skiing holiday.Chapter 6: Starting a Cattle Project16:: Details the process of starting a cattle project and the philosophy behind it.