Smart planning for safe operations

I joined SCCT in 2019 with a background in commercial, accounting and management studies. I was looking to explore a new industry and step outside my comfort zone.

I began in cargo control, where I gained end-to-end visibility of the container lifecycle and contributed to process improvements and system enhancements. Later, I moved into vessel planning, developing a strong interest in dynamic planning and real-time operational decision-making.

In 2024, I was promoted to Terminal Planning Supervisor, reflecting my growth and readiness to take on broader leadership responsibilities.

Most people think vessel planning is simply about dragging containers from the yard to the vessel on a screen. In reality, it is a complex decision-making role that requires continuous thinking, risk assessment and coordination. Every plan must balance yard strategy, equipment availability, traffic flow, crane productivity and vessel safety.

What may surprise people is that vessel planning is a live operation where unexpected situations occur frequently, and planners must make fast, safe and efficient decisions in real time.

As a Planning Supervisor, my responsibilities focus on three main areas: coordination, process and people.

I ensure clear coordination between planning, operations and other stakeholders – supported by lean methods and structured communication. I also make sure planners fully understand their roles and responsibilities, and that SOPs and work instructions are updated and followed.

On the people side, I focus on engagement, performance development, skills assessment and training through structured vessel planning sessions and quality checks.

My role contributes to safety and efficiency by ensuring planning decisions are proactive rather than reactive.

Through dynamic vessel planning and look-ahead processes, we identify clashes, rehandles, safety risks and equipment conflicts before operations begin. This includes predicting potential vessel cell guide issues, optimizing yard equipment usage and improving traffic flow.

By combining planning discipline, training and process verification, we reduce risks, improve productivity and maintain safe operations for both yard and vessel teams.

Yes, several changes have had a major impact. The establishment of the control room transformed vessel planning from a static role into both static and dynamic planning, allowing planners to respond more effectively to live operational challenges.

In addition, system improvements such as enhanced EDI handling, visualization tools for pockets, automated checks and N4 system upgrades have significantly improved planning accuracy, decision speed and collaboration between teams.

The most common challenges include unexpected operational changes – such as equipment constraints, yard congestion, vessel condition issues and last-minute plan changes.

Balancing vessel requirements with yard strategy while maintaining safety and productivity is always demanding.

Another key challenge is turning unplanned situations into predictable ones, which is why look-ahead planning and continuous process improvement are critical.

What I enjoy most is the dynamic nature of the role and the continuous problem-solving it requires. Every vessel brings a new challenge, and no two operations are the same.

I also enjoy sharing knowledge through training and seeing planners grow in confidence and capability. Being part of real-time decision-making and seeing the direct impact on operations is very motivating.

I am proud to work here because the terminal provides opportunities to grow, learn and contribute beyond a single role. I started in a completely different field and was able to build my career through curiosity, hard work and the organization’s support.

Being trusted to lead improvements, train others locally and internationally, and contribute to major projects makes me proud to be part of this team.

Outside of work, I enjoy activities that improve mental agility rather than focusing on one specific sport.

I value spending time with my wife and son, and I have a strong love for pets – especially dogs – which helps me relax and maintain balance outside the workplace.