Name: Jurgen Kerssen
Current Sea2Shore position: Consultant Nautical Weather Routing
Current employer: MeteoGroup
MeteoGroup acts as a partner to its clients for weather-related decisions and operates globally from a network of offices in 16 countries.
A new life onshore
‘Because of changes in my family situation, I decided to stop sailing. The periods that I was away from home felt longer with each trip. Time for a new challenge! While searching with Google for a job onshore, I came across TOS. After a very pleasant conversation, Eline Suurmond has now helped me to find a good job.’
The personal approach at Sea2Shore
Which job and which company are a good fit for you? At TOS, it is important to get clarity in these areas in order to make the right match.
‘During my first conversation, I spoke extensively with Eline about my work experience and my reasons to stop sailing. Also, she presented me with a few ‘cases’ to figure out where my interests were. In my case, I was very enthusiastic about the position of Route Analyst at MeteoGroup. Eline noticed this right away and got straight to work for me for this position. The guidance before and after the job interviews was very pleasant. The do’s and don’ts for during job interviews and the tips regarding dress code were, for me personally, very helpful.’
What is your added value as a former seafarer?
‘The work as Route Analyst goes together nicely with my former job as Chief Officer. Planning voyages in the ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display Information System), for example, is also a daily part of my current position. Through my contact with the ships and my colleagues (all former seafarers), it doesn’t feel like an onshore position. But above all, you’re home every night! A perfect combination, which makes this work onshore very attractive. The added value of a former seafarer, in any case, is that you’re a good team player. Also, you know from experience what life is like on board. Nice for all involved!
Your Sea2Shore position begins with TOS!
Certainly a catchy slogan, but did you also experience it that way? Has your contact with TOS led you to a new career that suits you? ‘Absolutely! With the excellent guidance and network of TOS, I fit right in here at MeteoGroup.’