From the quay to Commercial Manager

Since the summer of 2023, we have welcomed Zoran van Rijn as Commercial Manager within the Euro Nordic Logistics team.

zoran van rijn, commercial manager, euro nordic logistics, tailwind shipping lines, sales

A true football enthusiast – both on TV and on the sidelines, where he cheers on his two sons. With his knowledge of and excitement for the port of Rotterdam, he brings a burst of energy and experience with him. To get to know our new commercial colleague even better, we spoke with Zoran.

zoran van rijn, commercial manager, euro nordic logistics, tailwind shipping lines, sales

As a rookie in the port

At the age of 20, he started in 2004 as a ‘rookie’ at the old ECT Home Terminal. That is where it all began for Zoran. “As a terminal operator, I had a wonderful time. Working continuously on board container ships, on the quay, and at the terminals was fantastic. After a year, I made the jump from the Waalhaven to the Maasvlakte. A huge difference and a different dynamic. Bigger ships, cranes – very impressive. I was given the opportunity to develop myself further. I really wanted to work on the bridge crane. To achieve this, I successfully completed various training courses and programs at STC, making this a reality. From all-round planner to managing the terminals. Gradually, I became a true logistics expert.”

From container logistics to commerce

After working in various operational field roles for 8 years, Zoran felt it was time for an office role. After a period as a Planning & Control Officer, it was time for something new. “My preference was for a position at the intersection of commerce and container logistics. At EGS (ed. intermodal network operator of Hutchison Ports ECT Rotterdam), I was given the opportunity to start as an Inside Sales Representative. Together with my colleagues, I brought the intermodal connections of EGS and the inland terminals of Hutchison Ports to the attention of potential customers.”

After a period at OOCL Logistics as an Outside Sales Executive, it was time for the ‘other side of the table’. This is how Zoran entered into discussions with Euro Nordic Logistics about a commercial role within the company. “I was told that the nature of that role would become clear at the start of the position,” Zoran shares with a smile. “After an informal conversation, I was immediately enthusiastic and decided to sign. Euro Nordic is a company with a clear vision on intermodal solutions and sustainability, and offers many growth opportunities.

Hands-on at Euro Nordic

Zoran explains enthusiastically, “At Euro Nordic, the approachable atmosphere is accessible, and they are always looking for new opportunities to seize.” You see that reflected in the workplace as well: roll up your sleeves and get to work! What I really like about Euro Nordic is that nothing is set in stone. Colleagues are open to new ideas and there is a lot of freedom to take things on independently. There is a hands-on, no-nonsense mentality within the company. That suits me well.”

Plenty of opportunities

Ultimately, it was clear from day one that Zoran would soon be involved in commercial activities for both NCL and Tailwind Shipping Lines. In the long term, he sees many opportunities to continue growing as a professional and to be of even greater value to customers and Euro Nordic Logistics. “I see opportunities for cargo flows such as electric cars, solar panels, and chemicals, but also intermodal connections. In the coming period, I will look at how I can further shape these plans. This is yet another great example that there are plenty of opportunities to develop yourself within Euro Nordic Logistics,” concludes Zoran.

With a surname mentioning Europe’s most important river, we expect everything will work out just fine. On behalf of the entire Euro Nordic Logistics team: best of luck and welcome again, Zoran!