This will be an ongoing project that we hope will encourage people to share positive stories of diversity and inclusion, supporting a push towards sustainable equality of treatment and opportunity for everyone within our great industry.
If you’d like to nominate someone as a future interview subject please email us here.
Today, we have the pleasure of introducing Vilde Hageselle, Market and Environmental Analyst at Grieg Green.
What is your role and how long have you had it?
I’ve been working at Grieg Green since 2020, and as Market and Environmental Analyst since January 2022. I support our team on commercial issues, following up on our portfolio of clients, and have responsibility for market research.
How did you get involved in the maritime industry?
I started my career with what was then called BW Gas at Lysaker in Oslo while I was still studying. Once I’d finished university, I was lucky enough to work with a lot of fantastic people across the group, gaining experience of everything from finance to technical and communications. My time in communications in Singapore, in particular, taught me a lot in a very short period of time. Looking back, working for BW Group helped me build the foundations for where I am today. It gave me a kickstart in the industry and allowed me to make many new contacts, both in Oslo and Singapore.
Why do you believe people should consider a future within the maritime industry?
The maritime industry is dynamic, international, and truly exciting to be part of.
Even if it is a large global industry, it often feels small, as we’re all connected in one way or another. So, there’s a real sense of community. In general, I see shipping people as easy-going, open, and friendly – and that is important for me as a ‘people person’.
The industry also faces a monumental shift, forcing all parties to revise their strategies and re-evaluate traditional ways of working. We need all types of people, competencies, and backgrounds to succeed in this shift. And, perhaps most of all, we need fresh eyes; in other words, the maritime industry needs young people!
What key lessons have you learned during your time in the industry, or what advice would you give to others?
It may sound like a cliché, but you can grab any opportunity if you put in the effort, commitment and work hard. Do not be afraid to make your voice heard in a room full of people. Do not fear rejection. What is the worst thing that could happen?
And get a mentor whom you can go to for advice. When I was younger and searching for an employer, I defined what companies I wanted to work for and basically cold-called them. I also looked online for relevant leaders I wanted to work for and reached out to introduce myself. You have to be on your toes and believe in yourself.
What do you think are the industry’s key strengths and weaknesses – how would you like to see it evolve?
An evident strength is the industry’s international nature, with brilliant people worldwide. It has undergone huge technological development, with new types of vessels, solutions, and equipment available. I also believe that, generally speaking, the industry is sincere in its ambition to enable more sustainable operations.
That said, we have a great responsibility to fight climate change and address environmental challenges. The international nature of shipping makes it more difficult to achieve alignment on which solutions to go for. Many people are still on the fence due to the scale of the global challenges. So, we really need to make it easier for shipowners to make sustainable decisions regarding fuel and available solutions.
I am also lucky enough to work for an employer where gender equality is high on the agenda. But even in 2022, companies still have a way to go to ensure genuine diversity and inclusion.
What do you like best about your current role?
I enjoy being allowed to both follow up with our customers and, at the same time, do research. We are a small team and work closely together, assisting each other when and where needed. My role is new and somewhat tailored to both my background and the company’s demand, which gives me some ‘freedom’ in terms of additional tasks, if I see the need.
I also like the fact that I can utilise my educational background (marine biology) more and more as we advance, with a greater focus on maritime’s environmental impact on our oceans. I have a different background from many others in the industry, and I see that as an advantage.
Any other comments for our readers?
My favourite Norwegian saying, which often comes to mind, can be translated as “it’s when you’re facing uphill you can go upwards”. In other words, progress is made in more demanding times.
