Episode 73: Solving Problems and Building Futures in Ship Broking and Beyond with Zoe Upson

Episode 73: Solving Problems and Building Futures in Ship Broking with Zoe Upson Guest: Zoe Upson, Director at FACT - Freight and Commodity Talent LTD Episode Overview: In this episode, we welcome Zoe Upson, Director at FACT - Freight and Commodity Talent LTD, a market leader in shipping and commodities talent solutions. Zoe shares her journey from being a broker to finding a more balanced work life in recruiting, her passion for problem-solving, and insights into the evolving landscape of the ship broking industry. Key Points: Career Transition: Zoe's transition from brokerage to recruiting, emphasizing the work-life balance and satisfaction she finds in solving clients' problems. Problem-Solving: Zoe's love for being a problem solver and finding creative solutions for clients. Dubai's Growth: The rapid growth of Dubai, its favorable conditions for expatriates, and its emerging role as a hub for the shipping and commodities industry. Role of Recruiters: The dual role of recruiters in helping both hiring companies and job seekers, and the importance of having a talent partner who understands the business. Evolution in Recruitment: Changes in recruitment practices, leveraging skills creatively, and the transactional nature of the industry. Impact of AI: While AI will impact the industry, it won't replace the human touch in recruitment and brokerage; the roles will evolve. Trust and Relationships: Navigating an age of distrust through strong relationships and the importance of trust in the industry. Diversity in Recruitment: Challenges in hiring women, the importance of a diverse workforce, and proactive efforts to bring women into the shipping industry. Advice for Brokers: Encouragement for women and others to build strong relationships, which are crucial for success in the broking industry. Networking and LinkedIn: The power of LinkedIn as a networking tool and the underutilization of the platform in the shipping community. New Generation of Brokers: Understanding that new brokers are different, not lazy, and their role in driving future trends. Future Trends: Increasing funds and trading in FFAs (Forward Freight Agreements), both dry and wet. Recommended Reading: Zoe is currently re-reading "Feel the Fear... and Do It Anyway" by Susan Jeffers, a book on turning fear into action. Tune in Now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube. Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA' Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano This podcast is sponsored by Njord, powered by Maersk Tankers.  Join Njord for their next webinar featuring several fantastic panelists as they discuss Wind-Assisted Propulsion Systems (WAPS).  This takes place on June 25th, 1000 CEST, register here.    Support Our Podcast: If you've found value in this episode, please rate us 5-stars and follow. Subscribe to our newsletter for more updates. Your support truly makes a difference! Keywords: ship broking, recruitment, work-life balance, problem-solving, Dubai, shipping industry, AI in recruitment, diverse workforce, LinkedIn networking, FFA trading.

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Maritime Digital Evolution with Chris Aversano Dive deep into the maritime world's digital transformation with Chris Aversano, a seasoned maritime professional with three decades of experience both on shore and at sea. Recognizing that the maritime sector has been one of the last to fully embrace the digital age, Chris delves into the pivotal changes now underway. Join Chris as he engages with the trailblazers, innovators, investors, and thought leaders who are steering the maritime industry into the digital future. Whether you're a maritime enthusiast, a tech aficionado, or someone curious about both realms, this podcast promises insightful discussions and a fresh perspective on the maritime digital frontier. Tune in and embark on a journey to explore the digital waves reshaping the maritime world.