‘I have experience at TOS as a working student, taxi driver, mover, indoor footballer and communication officer. As a high school friend of Ivan Wagenaar, I practically grew up at TOS!’ Meet Thomas Wilbers. He has a bachelor degree in Logistics, completed a master’s degree in Business Administration, worked for nine years in various business areas as Proposal Engineer and Area Sales Manager, and is now back to his old stomping grounds. He is joining TOS as Business Manager Ship Management.
GOOD RELATIONSHIPS
‘Hands-on’ is the common theme in Thomas’ career. At Ziggo, Thomas was responsible for the replenishment of about two-hundred service vans of Ziggo service technicians. ‘Great guys who like to share their technical know-how. It is always nice to have good contact with the people you work with.’ This was also a central part of the next job he had. At a forwarder with its office right in the city centre of Rotterdam, he was responsible for the operational planning of international trucks. ‘Drivers work long days and spend a lot of time away from home. Understanding this and having good communication with them is key.’
AN OLD LOVE
Keeping up with social contacts and networking comes naturally to Thomas. Even though he hasn’t worked for TOS for some time, he still came to every New Year’s reception. ‘That has just become a tradition’, he explains. ‘You get to see everyone in the industry and then something else comes your way!’ Thomas is referring here to his next position: Proposal Engineer at Alphatron Marine. A challenging job with a whole range of work activities, such as advising shipping companies/ship owners on navigation and communication equipment for various newbuild vessels such as tugs and patrol vessels. ‘Enabling vessels to sail safely, that is what it’s all about. Besides that, it’s of course also great to serve the international market, with all the travelling and trade fairs that come with it.’ But, as the saying goes: ‘oude liefde roest niet’, or in English: an old love doesn’t get rusty. So, when TOS came back on his path, although it wasn’t an easy decision, Thomas was convinced to go back to TOS.
TOS Ship Deliveries
‘Together with Ivan Wagenaar, I grew up with this wonderful family business. That I can now contribute to the development of TOS as Business Manager Ship Management is fantastic. A management position, worldwide sailing area, different deliveries simultaneously, a dynamic department, working close to home… You got me!’ Thomas works in his team with Sales Manager Ship Delivery Rolf Kievits and four former seafarers: Jeroen Tromp, Niels Barnhoorn, Myron Dam and Thies Kegge. ‘A full load of experience! Together we deliver a great and challenging service: delivering (newbuild) vessels to clients worldwide. And, of course, the TOS office team doesn’t do this alone. We couldn’t do without the advice and guidance of our ship delivery captains, suppliers and experienced (towing) crew. Also, the input and wishes of our customers are certainly very important. Together we come up with solutions and arrive safe and sound to our home port.’
The Future
‘Growth! I’m ready for it, the team is totally ready for it. In the world of ship delivery, TOS is already a well-known and respected name. I see plenty of opportunities for growth in work vessels, passenger ships and tugs. Also, in the area of our services: spare parts, compass adjusting and ship management. I am here to stay!’
YOUR DESTINATION IS OUR CHALLENGE
We are experienced in the relocation of all types of vessels. For an all-in price and with clear terms and conditions, we can take care of flag state registration, certification, ISM and instruction of the new crew in preparation of handing over the vessel.
Call me for more information +31 10 428 42 78
Mail me Thomas Wilbers, Business Manager Ship Management
Interested in a Ship Delivery?
Mail now Rolf Kievits, Sales Manager Ship Delivery
Read about our Ship Delivery Service