Dionysis Drakogiannopoulos – Chartering

With over 15 years of active sailing experience on container ships, Capt Dionysis Drakogiannopoulos has built a distinguished career in the maritime industry. Since transitioning ashore in 2014, Capt Dionysis has held various leadership roles across Greece, China, South Korea, and Denmark. Notably, Capt Dionysis served as the Head of Chartering Assurance for a fleet of 400 vessels at A.P. Moller-Maersk and has been an Operations Liaison Officer for 3rd party management companies in Athens, MSQ superintendent based in Shanghai, owner’s representative surveyor at HHI & SSME shipyards in S.Korea to construct 14 container vessels, marine superintendent for more than four years in containers and bulk carriers. His global experience in vetting inspections, marine accident investigations, new building projects, and problem-solving has made him a highly respected professional in the field.

A true action-oriented leader, Capt Dionysis is known for his ability to navigate complex challenges in multinational organizations, leveraging his multicultural experience and strong communication skills. He is committed to continuous learning and improvement, always striving to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in his work. Outside of his professional life, Capt Dionysis is an Ironman Triathlon enthusiast and a writer. He is a six-time Ironman finisher and co-author of the best-selling book in seven countries, “Ignite Love,” in 2020.

Can you explain a typical day in the life of a former Captain and a Deputy Head of Chartering? What are your main tasks and responsibilities each day?

As deputy Head of the Chartering Department, I oversee post-fixture activities and ensure the seamless execution of charter parties and shipping agreements. My role involves leading a talented team, optimizing operational efficiency, and maintaining strong stakeholder relationships. With extensive experience in shipping operations and a focus on risk management, I drive continuous improvement and strategic decision-making to support the company’s success.

Messages to Charterers for daily operational guidelines, instructing the team on post-fixture tasks, and assisting chartering with upcoming fixtures of our container fleet. Also, as an officially designated point of communication between technical managers and charterers, Managing ongoing legal matters with relevant teams. More detailed:

• Communication with Charterers: Handling day-to-day operational matters by maintaining regular contact with charterers to address any issues or updates. This involved negotiating and resolving operational challenges as they occurred.
• Team Supervision and Guidance: I supervise and guide my team on various post-fixture matters, including managing debit notes, hire statements, claims, off-hires, CP disputes, and other related documentation. I ensure accuracy and timeliness in these areas.
• Liaison with External Technical Managers: Serving as the official communication link between external technical managers and charterers. This role required coordinating and addressing any technical issues or requirements that need attention.
• Oversight of Legal Matters: I oversaw ongoing legal matters by working closely with legal teams. Our team played a crucial role in the decision on how to close a case with Charterers, managing disputes and ensuring compliance with legal obligations.

Overall, my role combined operational oversight with the crucial elements of strategic communication and problem-solving. These skills were of utmost importance to ensure smooth and efficient operations, underscoring the strategic nature of our roles in the shipping industry.

How did you reach your current position(s)? What key experiences and decisions shaped your career path?

Looking back, I will say that the following fundamental points were the following three:

• Find your passion. Before I stepped out from the sea carrier, I had already put a strong academic foundation. I realised a bit late (I was nearly 22 years old) that when I didn’t find interest in something, I was a moderate performer at my best. So, until the age of 22, I had not excelled in my academic career; I had finished marine high school and my first 3-year college course in shipping with moderate grades. Then I realised that my passion was for sea adventures. The moment I had to change my focus and signed up for the Merchant Marine Academy, everything made sense to me. Since then, my grades have been merited or excellence throughout the rest of my academic life and my career overall.
• When preparation meets opportunity. Before I left the sea carrier after 15 years at sea, I had already laid a strong academic foundation and been exposed to several projects, like new building supervising and new technologies like Water ballast treatment, which built a strong foundation for my after-sea adventures.
• Be flexible, optimistic, and brave enough to chase things passionate about me. Throughout my career, I’ve always embraced new adventures, challenging projects, and innovative technologies. My journey to my current position has been shaped by a willingness to step out of my comfort zone and grab new opportunities head-on. The comfort zone is a great place to be, but nothing is growing there. There are always many excuses why you should not move out of this zone, and the ability to dare is the core of what brought me where I am today. This mindset has allowed me to develop a diverse skill set and advance in my career.

Initially, as a chief officer, I was involved for 12 months in supporting the implementation of new water ballast technology and contributed to the certification of Erma First’s prototype system long before this technology became mandatory for shipping.

When the opportunity to work on new building projects appeared while I was still sailing, I grape it without hesitation. This decision laid the groundwork for my subsequent promotion to Superintendent. After two years in that role, a position based in Shanghai became available. I accepted it and spent the next two years managing new projects for a surveying company and an agency.

Following this, a third-party management manager position opened up, which I took on until Maersk Line, a year later, advertised a role for a captain with new building and surveying experience at a managerial level—perfectly aligned with my background. At Maersk, the world’s second-largest shipping company, I spent five years leveraging my experience and deepening my knowledge of chartering. This experience has been instrumental in my current role, allowing me to fully utilize all my past expertise.

What specific skills and qualities do you believe are essential for success within your field(s)? As a Captain, what was the extra mile you had to go to move ashore?

Certain skills and qualities are essential for success in the maritime industry. Once you reach the Captain Level, you must further develop the skills below to move into a shore-based role.

• Leadership: Strong leadership skills are vital for a captain, but this skill is most important later. You must manage and motivate your crew and, later on, your shore team, make quick decisions under pressure, and ensure everybody in your team is on board with each project.
• Communication: Clear and effective communication is key. You must be able to convey instructions and information precisely to your crew, stakeholders, and clients later on.
• Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: The ability to think on your feet and solve unexpected issues is critical in shipping. Situations can change rapidly, and finding quick, effective solutions is essential.
• Decision-Making: Making informed decisions under pressure, often with incomplete information, is a daily routine in an industry where nothing is static and new challenges pop up every single day.
• Flexibility (Adaptability): The maritime industry constantly evolves, making adaptability essential. Being open to change and ready to embrace new technologies and methods is crucial. Flexibility is a key skill, not only for adapting to new procedures and technologies but also for managing diverse human interactions. Working effectively with different cultures, opinions, personalities, and mindsets is a significant advantage for future growth and involvement.
• Helicopter View: Having a holistic perspective is crucial. My experience has taught me that opposing sides can often have the same underlying points. It’s only by maintaining a visible “helicopter view” that you can recognize how different perspectives—such as those represented by “6” and “9”—are actually the same concept seen from different angles.
• Networking: Building strong relationships with industry colleagues is important, especially when transitioning to shore-based roles. You cannot strategically plan to leave a good taste with coworkers; you need to put a lot of effort into building bridges rather than destroying one while simultaneously getting the job done. The ego is an enemy inside that works against you—remember this.
• Management Training: Pursuing management courses and certifications helped bridge the gap between operational roles at sea and leadership positions onshore.
• Project Management: Learning how to manage projects effectively and lead teams on land was crucial for a successful transition.
• Continuous Learning and Education: Taking courses related to things that interest me in shipping keeps me informed. From human resources, logistics, Excel, and PowerBi to business management, it keeps me informed and equipped for the challenges of the shore-side maritime industry.

What knowledge is critical for a successful career in your field(s)?

For a career in my field, several key areas of knowledge are valuable. A deep understanding of charter parties and their clause definitions is necessary for effectively negotiating and managing contracts. Market analysis skills are needed for understanding trends and making informed strategic decisions. Expertise in data analysis enables one to assess market data, operational performance, and financial metrics effectively. A solid grasp of basic accounting principles is necessary for handling financial matters and reporting. Knowledge of microeconomics provides insight into market behaviour and economic factors influencing the shipping industry. Additionally, familiarity with maritime law is essential for navigating legal frameworks, regulations, and compliance issues. Together, these areas of expertise contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the industry and are integral to achieving career success.

What educational background and professional experiences are important for someone looking to advance into an executive role in this field(s)?

A degree in fields such as Maritime Studies, Shipping Management, Business Administration, or Finance provides a solid foundation. Advanced degrees like an MBA or specialized maritime qualifications can further improve one’s expertise and leadership skills.

Professional Experiences: Hands-on experience in various roles within the maritime industry is essential. This includes working in chartering operations to gain a comprehensive understanding of the sector. Experience managing teams, handling complex negotiations, and navigating regulatory and market challenges is particularly valuable.

Additionally, continuous professional development through certifications, industry seminars, and networking with industry friends can help build the skills and knowledge necessary for an executive position. Combining a strong educational background with diverse and substantial professional experience prepares individuals to effectively lead and drive strategic initiatives in the field.

How important are networking and relationship-building? How can the new generation start networking and building up relationships?

Networking and relationship-building are crucial in any industry, including shipping. They help create valuable connections, gain insights, and open opportunities for collaboration and career advancement. For the new generation looking to start networking and building relationships, it’s important to engage actively in industry events, join relevant professional organizations, and participate in online forums and social media platforms. Building relationships with mentors, colleagues, and industry leaders can provide guidance and support and open doors to new opportunities. By being proactive and approachable, young professionals can establish a strong network to benefit their careers. Nautical Institute, BCA and Lloyd University have proven to be, in my case, a great starting point for long-term friendships and networking.

What aspects of your job did you find most rewarding?

The most rewarding aspect of my role is the constant opportunity to deal with new and unique daily challenges. The dynamic nature of the job ensures that no two problems are the same, which keeps me engaged and excited. I thrive on finding innovative solutions to complex issues, and the ever-changing shipping environment ensures that boredom is never a factor. The satisfaction of overcoming new obstacles and continuously learning and adapting is what makes this job so fulfilling for me.

Can you describe a successful deal that stands out in your career?

Two notable achievements in my career involved throwing unique challenges that demanded quick decision-making, stress management and extensive expertise.

One was addressing the grounding of the vessel Maersk Chams in 2015, which resulted in the closing of the Suez Canal. This critical situation required immediate action and coordination to minimize operational disruption and ensure the vessel was safely fast-floated and then repaired in record time. Successfully managing this incident helped avoid the cancellation of the charter party, which could have resulted in financial losses ranging from $40.2 million to $200.75 million at that time.

Another major accomplishment was the development and successful launch of the Maersk Fleet Risk Platform, which was a pioneering idea at the time that led other major players to follow. I co-led the project from its inception, navigating complex requirements and integrating advanced technologies to improve vetting inspection performance, reduce time, and manage risk to improve performance and operational efficiency across the Maersk chartered fleet.

These experiences underscore my ability to manage high-pressure situations and drive innovative solutions, marking significant milestones in my career.

What are the biggest challenges you faced in your role?

In my role, I have faced several significant challenges. Balancing the expectations of various stakeholders—such as charterers, shipowners, and internal teams—requires careful negotiation and communication to ensure fairness and align differing interests.

Adapting to market fluctuations, including changing freight rates and geopolitical uncertainties, demands constant vigilance and flexibility.

Additionally, navigating increasingly stringent global regulations and ensuring compliance while maintaining operational efficiency can be complex. Integrating new technologies into existing systems presents its own difficulties, as does recruiting and retaining qualified personnel in a competitive industry.

Finally, managing operational efficiency during logistical challenges, including coordination across different regions and addressing unforeseen issues, requires effective problem-solving and resource management skills. Each challenge demands a different approach, adaptability, and strong communication to overcome effectively.

How do you handle the pressure of fluctuating market conditions?

Handling the pressure of fluctuating market conditions involves a combination of proactive strategies and adaptability. Here’s how I approach it:

• Stay Informed: Trying to continuously monitor market trends and economic indicators to anticipate changes and adjust strategies accordingly. Keeping up to date with industry news helps me make informed decisions and stay ahead of potential issues.
• Flexible Planning: Develop flexible plans and contingency strategies that can quickly adapt to changing market conditions. Prepare for the worst but hope for the best is a safe recipe
• Effective Communication: It is crucial to maintain open lines of communication with stakeholders, including team members, clients, and partners. Clear communication helps manage expectations and ensure everyone is aligned with the current situation and adjustments.
• Stress Management: I employ stress management techniques to maintain composure under pressure. These include prioritizing tasks, staying organized, and focusing on problem-solving rather than uncertainty.
• Leverage Technology: Utilizing advanced data analytics and forecasting tools helps make better predictions and decisions. Technology aids in identifying trends and optimizing responses to market changes.

By staying informed, being adaptable, communicating effectively, managing stress, and leveraging technology, my team can navigate the challenges posed by fluctuating market conditions and maintain a steady course.

How do you stay informed about the latest trends in the shipping market? What resources do you rely on?

I rely on various resources and methods to stay informed about the latest trends in the shipping market.

• Industry News and Publications: I regularly read leading industry publications and news sources such as The Journal of Commerce, Lloyd’s List, gCaptain and Tradewinds. These provide valuable insights into market trends, regulatory changes, and significant events affecting the industry.
• Market Reports and Data: I use comprehensive market reports and data analytics from firms like Clarkson Research, Allied, Alphaliner, Lloyds and BIMCO. These reports offer in-depth analysis and forecasts on shipping market conditions, fleet statistics, and economic indicators
• Company Resources and Internal Reports: I monitor internal reports and analyses within our company. These documents often include insights into market performance and strategic initiatives relevant to our business.
• Industry Forums: Following key industry figures, companies, and forums on social media platforms like LinkedIn helps me stay informed about real-time developments and diverse perspectives on current issues.

By leveraging these resources, I ensure that I remain well-informed and can make informed decisions based on the latest market trends and developments.

What are the key challenges you face?

• Navigating Stakeholder Expectations and Balancing Interests: In my position, one of the most significant challenges is balancing the needs and expectations of all parties involved. Ensuring fairness while managing various stakeholders—such as charterers, managers, and internal teams—requires careful negotiation and communication. It is crucial to maintain transparency and build strong relationships to address conflicts and align interests effectively. Motivated for fairness and understanding differing perspectives helps in navigating these complexities and achieving mutually beneficial outcomes.

Additionally, sometimes you need to choose the fight you want to give; you cannot fight for everything, and you need to accept that you cannot win all debates with all shareholders. This is more than a skill that you learn on the way to the journey; there is no safe roadmap for this – enjoy the ride 😊

• Regulatory Compliance: Navigating and complying with increasingly stringent regulations, both locally and globally, requires constant vigilance and adaptation. Keeping up with these regulations can be complex and resource-intensive.

• Technological Integration: It can be challenging to adapt to rapidly evolving technologies while ensuring seamless integration into our existing systems. We invest in training and infrastructure to manage these transitions effectively.

• Market Volatility: Market fluctuations and geopolitical uncertainties can impact our operations and strategic planning. Staying agile and responsive to these changes is crucial for maintaining stability.

• Environmental Sustainability: Meeting environmental regulations and pursuing sustainability initiatives requires significant effort and investment

How does your company recruit and retain talent in such a competitive industry?

In a competitive industry like ours, recruiting and retaining talent involves a multifaceted approach:

• Positive Work Environment: We strive to create a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees feel valued and engaged. Fostering a positive company culture and recognizing achievements are key to keeping.
• Balancing core values and academic qualifications: Most importantly, we are cultivating our own pool of talent. Most of our staff advance within the organization based on our core values. We prioritize promotion and trusting our ex or current team members from our pool of companies over solely emphasizing academic credentials. Experience has shown that finding individuals who fit well with our team is more critical than having highly theoretical academic qualifications.

How do you envision of seafaring and chartering in the maritime industry over the next decade? What new challenges and opportunities do you expect to arise?

Various factors are likely to drive significant changes in seafaring and chartering in the maritime industry over the next decade.

• Challenges: One major challenge will be the shortage of qualified personnel both at sea and onshore. As the industry evolves, the need for skilled professionals will become even more critical, yet there is a growing gap in expertise. Additionally, increasingly strict global regulations will add complexity to compliance, impacting operational efficiency and increasing costs. The rise of larger high-tech vessels introduces higher risks, making contingency planning and crisis management more complex. This is exemplified by incidents such as the Ever Given grounding in the Suez Canal and the DALi case in Baltimore, which highlighted the vulnerabilities associated with large-scale maritime contingency operations.

Geopolitical shifts will also play a role, with rapidly changing dynamics potentially disrupting traditional trade routes and impacting global market access. These changes may create uncertainties but also open new markets and opportunities for emerging players.

• Opportunities: On the flip side, technological advancements offer significant opportunities. Innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous vessels promise to boost productivity and safety in shipping. AI can enhance operational efficiency, while autonomous technologies in ports, vessels, and services will streamline processes and reduce human error. Developing alternative fuels will also drive sustainability and help meet stricter environmental regulations.

Geopolitical shifts, while presenting challenges, also open doors to new markets. For example, Mexico’s rising role as an exporter and China’s changing role from a traditionally primary product exporter to a more significant player in raw materials reflect how shifting global dynamics can create new business opportunities. Adapting to these changes will be crucial for leveraging emerging markets and staying competitive.

Overall, while the maritime industry faces substantial challenges, particularly concerning personnel shortages, regulatory complexity, and geopolitical uncertainties, the advent of new technologies and shifting global trade patterns present significant opportunities for growth and innovation.

It is important to recognize that the high-profit margins of the past decade for those involved in shipping have squeezed and are expected to continue shrinking further. This is due to various factors, such as new legislation popping up daily locally and globally, a riskier market, increased competition, and rising costs for vessels and repairs. These developments will force companies to move away from traditional practices, creating significant opportunities for new ideas to emerge and for the next generations to take the lead forward.

How do you balance the demands of your role with your personal life and well-being?

Let’s be honest: work-life balance is a concept embraced 100% by only a few regions in the shipping industry, where companies actively promote it. Throughout my career, I struggled with this, as many others do, often following the prevailing trend set by colleagues.

During my time at Maersk headquarters in Copenhagen, I realized that maintaining a work-life balance is essential for long-term team success. This insight is one of the most valuable lessons I’ll carry with me as I return to Greece after nearly 15 years aboard.

Achieving this balance is not easy, especially when you are in a junior position, and you must follow the rest of the team’s trends. On the other hand, it is more difficult to force this to happen when you are leading a team. But if you achieve it personally and at your team level, then you will unlock a special strength.

Personally, I am trying to balance my role with my personal life by setting clear boundaries and focusing on effective time management. I try to take regular breaks and engage in activities that refresh me, such as hobbies and spending time with loved ones. Delegating tasks efficiently and staying organized helps me reduce stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Additionally, I prioritize self-care, ensuring I allocate time for rest and relaxation, which is vital for sustaining overall well-being and productivity.

Throughout your career, what are the most valuable lessons you’ve learned?

Throughout my career, I’ve learned the importance of adaptability, as the ability to adjust to new technologies, environments, and changing circumstances is crucial.

Maintaining a positive attitude helps navigate challenges effectively, while clear communication is key to successful teamwork and project management.

Lastly, focusing on solutions rather than problems fosters a proactive mindset and drives progress. Thinking positive always works. There are no dead-end roads; when you cannot solve a problem, you must discover a new way to move forward—trust yourself.

How do you stay motivated and inspired in the face of challenges and competition?

To stay motivated and inspired in the face of challenges. I focus on setting clear, realistic goals and celebrating progress along the way. I remind myself of the bigger picture and why I’m passionate about my work. Embracing a growth mindset helps me view challenges as opportunities for learning and improvement.

I also stay motivated by surrounding myself with a supportive network of colleagues and mentors who provide encouragement and perspective. Keeping up with industry trends and continuously seeking new knowledge helps me stay engaged and inspired. Ultimately, maintaining a positive attitude and focusing on personal and professional development keeps me driven, even in competitive and challenging situations.

What one piece of advice would you offer to young professionals who aspire to work in the field? How can they best position themselves for success?

• Be or try to be a pro user of Excel, Power BI, and data analytics. Spend all your energy on this; those tools will be needed more than ever in the future.
• Enjoy what you are doing every day. If not, then you are in the wrong place.
• Embrace every chance to gain new skills and knowledge, whether through formal education, on-the-job experiences, or networking with industry experts.
• To position yourself for success, focus on building a strong network and cultivating relationships with mentors who can provide guidance and support.
• Be adaptable and open to change, as the industry always evolves.
• Demonstrate a proactive attitude, take initiative in your projects, and be willing to go the extra mile. These qualities will not only help you stand out but also prepare you for the diverse challenges and opportunities that come your way.
• Be humble and grounded.
• Listen more than speak
• The salary is the reward for your effort, not the goal. Negotiate your salary to respect your effort, but don’t focus too much on this.
• Respect everyone around you. Remember that the world is not spinning around you. Everyone has a story to share; respect them and be supportive.

Looking back, what advice would you give to your younger self?

• I wish I had followed my mentors’ advice more closely and diligently. Enjoy the journey and focus on the process rather than the end goal.
• Avoid wasting time and energy on things you don’t like.
• Stay flexible and maintain a positive outlook, regardless of the circumstances.
• Remember, it’s the challenging times that shape you into the leader you will become—calm seas don’t build captains, but tough conditions do.
• Be brave enough to get out of your comfort zone every day.
• Don’t compare yourself to others’ development. Everyone has a different starting point, pace, and destination; focus on yours. It is not a race; it is a pleasure journey

—ENJOY IT.

• Don’t spend your energy trying to prove that you are right to others. Bees do not spend time to consist of flies that honey is better shit. Follow your dreams.