Leading from the ground up

Working in different roles across APM Terminals has given me a deep understanding of how each part of the terminal contributes to the overall operation. I started as the terminal’s first female gate administrator and went on to work as a junior buyer. From there, I became the terminal’s first female dispatcher and berth supervisor before becoming a shift manager.

Each role taught me something different. At the gate, I learned the importance of accuracy, customer service and keeping cargo moving smoothly. As a junior buyer, I gained an understanding of procurement and planning. Working as a dispatcher strengthened my ability to coordinate equipment, manage priorities and make timely decisions.

Then, as a berth supervisor, I developed my leadership skills and learned how to manage vessel operations safely and efficiently.

It happened gradually as I took on different roles across the terminal. I realised that port operations offer continuous learning, new challenges and the opportunity to make a real impact.

Succeeding in what has traditionally been a male-dominated environment also gave me the confidence to keep growing. It made me want to lead by example and encourage more women to consider careers in port operations.

A typical day starts with an update from the previous shift, followed by a safety briefing and a quick team meeting to align on priorities for the day. That gives us a chance to reinforce safety, discuss the day’s operational plans and make sure everyone is clear on our priorities.

From there, I’m out in the terminal, talking with the team, monitoring vessel operations, coordinating with planning, maintenance and the yard, and resolving challenges as they arise.

Every day is different, but my focus stays the same: keeping our people safe, supporting the team and running an efficient operation for our customers.

Probably how much of the job is about people. Being a shift manager isn’t just about supervising operations; it’s about leading a team and sometimes making difficult decisions under pressure.

Every shift brings different challenges, from equipment issues to changing operational priorities. The most rewarding part is seeing the team work through those challenges and finish the shift safely together.

I enjoy the connection with the team and being close to the operation. Being out in the terminal means I can see what’s happening, listen to people and understand the challenges they face.

I also enjoy problem-solving. No two shifts are exactly the same, and the challenges push you to think, learn and find solutions. For me, leadership isn’t just about giving instructions; it’s about being there with the team and working through things together.

I’ve learned that you need to listen, communicate clearly and stay calm when things don’t go according to plan. You also need to understand your team and support people when challenges arise.

Trust is very important. When people trust each other and see their leaders setting the right example, the whole team becomes stronger.

Teamwork is everything in our operation. Everyone needs to understand their role, communicate openly and support each other.

No one person or department can do it alone. When we work as one team, we can solve problems faster, keep each other safe and deliver better operations for our customers.

I’m excited about taking on greater responsibility and using what I’ve learned in my previous roles to support the team.

I want to help people develop and find ways to improve how we work. There is also a lot for me to learn in this role, and I’m looking forward to continuing to develop as a leader.

Success for me would be seeing the team grow and knowing I’ve made a positive contribution to APM Terminals Liberia.

I also want to keep developing myself and, hopefully, show others that dedication and hard work can lead to new opportunities, particularly for women who may not have considered a career in port operations.

Safety. Teamwork. Excellence.