Frank Stoops

Frank Stoops has built an extensive career in the shipping industry, spanning over four decades. Beginning in 1961 with Sotrafex/Ag.Mar.Antverpia N.V. in ship chartering and agency, he quickly progressed through key roles in companies such as Furness Shipping & Agency, Transintra N.V., and Sanexomar N.V., where he became Head Water Clerk and later Manager of the Agency Department. His expertise in agency operations, claims handling, and tramp shipping led him to management roles at Tramp Shipping Agency N.V. and Ag.Mar.Wall & C°. In 1990, he became Managing Director of Dominion N.V., a position he held until 2003, followed by a leadership role at Honesty Shipping & Consultancy. Throughout his career, he maintained strong relationships with Greek shipowners, regularly conducting business in Monte Carlo, London, and Athens.

Fluent in Dutch, English, and German, with working knowledge of French and Greek, Frank has navigated international shipping with ease. His extensive industry connections include high-profile figures from Onassis Group, J. Paul Getty Oil, Thenamaris, Minerva Tankers, Eastern Meditteranean and Louis Dreyfus Energy. His experience, spanning water clerk duties to executive management, highlights his in-depth knowledge of shipping operations and agency management.

Now retired, he remains passionate about the industry and enjoys traveling.

What inspired you to pursue a career in shipping, particularly as a port agent, and how did you get started in the industry?

My late uncle worked as a boarding clerk and port agent with Van Ommeren in Antwerp. He occasionally took me along when he boarded vessels, which I found fascinating. Inspired by those experiences, I chose to follow the same path and began my career in 1964.

Looking back, what were the most rewarding aspects of your role as a port agent?

One of the most rewarding aspects was convincing my Belgian management to send me to Greece, London, and Monte Carlo to acquire new customers. I had a personal interest in working with Greek shipowners, and I succeeded in securing business from some of the most prominent companies, such as Onassis Company, Thenamaris, Minerva Marine, Eastern Mediterranean, and many others. These relationships were built on trust and commitment, making my career highly fulfilling.

What were some of the most challenging situations you faced, and how did you overcome them?

One particularly challenging situation involved a Methenitis vessel loading general cargo in Antwerp. On the last loading day, I noticed a significant number of barrels being loaded as deck cargo. After checking the charter party (C/P), I found that only 300 metric tons of barrels or dangerous goods were allowed, but there were clearly more than that onboard. The vessel was scheduled to sail that evening, but I immediately took action, contacted the owners, and placed a lien on the cargo. After a 14-day delay, the owners and charterers reached an agreement, and the vessel was able to sail—ultimately benefiting the owners with additional hire revenue.

How have you seen the role of port agents evolve over the years? What technological advancements had the biggest impact on your work during your career?

The biggest transformation has been digitalization. When I started, most processes were manual, requiring face-to-face interactions and extensive paperwork. Today, real-time communication, electronic documentation, and automated port systems have streamlined operations, significantly improving efficiency.

What key lessons did you learn that are still relevant for port agents today?

Always read owners’ or charterers’ instructions carefully, depending on whom you are representing. Paying close attention to details and being proactive can prevent costly mistakes.

Can you share a particularly memorable event or experience during your career?

A memorable incident occurred when a Methenitis vessel lost both its port and starboard anchors along with their full chains while outbound from Antwerp. Salvors quickly responded, and the captain, under pressure, signed salvage documents without consulting me. I had to intervene, ensuring the agreement was changed to a “Lloyd’s Open Form,” which was more favorable for the owners. After two days, the anchors and chains were recovered, and the vessel continued its journey without undue financial loss.

Do you recall any unusual or unexpected situations you had to manage as a port agent?

One of the most dramatic situations was when I boarded the bulk carrier Seabulk (Thenamaris) in Antwerp and was informed of a fire onboard. The smoke was thick as I made my way to the bridge. The fire was later found to be intentional, likely linked to a crew strike. This led to an intervention by the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), a legal dispute, and ultimately, a declaration of mutiny. Maritime police had to patrol the vessel, and the matter was resolved through legal negotiations in London before the vessel was cleared to sail.

What advice would you give to someone starting their career as a port agent? What common mistakes have you seen, and how can they be avoided?

Time management is crucial. Tugboats, dock pilots, and river pilots must be scheduled precisely—neglecting these details can result in costly delays. Also, always verify cargo documentation and charter party agreements to avoid legal and financial complications.

What skills or qualities are essential for success in this role?

Beyond the standard responsibilities of a port agent, I took a hands-on approach, ensuring that clients received personalized service. I read charter parties, calculated dispatch and demurrage, negotiated bunkers, arranged crew changes, and facilitated interactions with consulates, surveyors, and ship repair facilities. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and a commitment to client relationships are key.

How do you see the role of port agents fitting into the broader maritime industry today?

Port agents remain vital facilitators between shipowners, charterers, authorities, and service providers. Their role has evolved with digitalization but continues to require expertise, reliability, and strong communication skills.

What are your thoughts on the future of port operations and the challenges the industry might face? How can port agents contribute to making the industry more efficient, sustainable, or inclusive?

Port agents can play a role in sustainability by facilitating eco-friendly port operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and promoting efficient turnaround times. Digital solutions will further enhance operational efficiency and transparency.

Do you find yourself applying skills from your career in other areas of your life?

Yes, problem-solving, negotiation, and crisis management skills developed in my career have been invaluable in everyday life.

What do you consider your most significant contribution to the industry? How would you like to be remembered?

I take pride in the long-term relationships I built. The companies I brought into my agency remained loyal even when I moved employers, proving that trust and service quality matter more than corporate names.

Are there any lessons from your career that you feel are important to share with the next generation?

Port agents work 24/7, often with minimal financial incentives beyond a company car and phone. While the job is rewarding, it requires sacrifices, including personal time. Those considering this path should explore alternative maritime careers, such as tallymen or roles in petrochemical logistics, where structured shifts and better compensation might be available.

What steps can young professionals take to build strong networks within the maritime community?

Start with a large company where you can collaborate with experienced colleagues. Attend industry events and cultivate relationships with shipowners, charterers, and maritime service providers.

How did you maintain a healthy balance between your professional and personal life?

Unfortunately, the demanding nature of the job made work-life balance difficult, contributing to personal sacrifices, including divorce. Those entering the field should set boundaries early and consider roles that offer better flexibility.

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

Dedication and attention to detail make all the difference. A proactive approach and deep industry knowledge can turn challenges into opportunities.

What drove your passion for shipping, and how did you stay motivated in such demanding roles?

I was trained to serve to the best of my abilities. The trust and confidence my clients placed in me were my biggest motivators.

What one piece of advice would you offer to someone aspiring to take on a port agent role within the maritime industry?

Understand the commitment required. If you’re passionate about shipping, the job can be rewarding, but be prepared for long hours and high responsibility.

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

Knowing what I do now, I would not have pursued a port agent role unless overtime and weekends were properly compensated. However, I was fortunate that my final employer, a Greek shipowner, provided fair financial rewards, making my sacrifices worthwhile.