Page 32 - Next Generation 2015 - Digtial Issue
P. 32
Next Generation Europe
Marc Saverys with sons Alexander, Michael and Ludovic
“There has not been much of career in shipping. So much is learned In addition to his chairmanship
a learning curve,” he says frankly. on the job and from colleagues, he says. of CMB, Marc Saverys is vice-chairman
“It has not really changed the way I of Euronav and his brother Nicolas,
work. I now have around 100 vessels It is an industry in which those Alexander’s uncle, is chief executive
under my control, compared with 15 at who may have shunned their textbooks and managing director of gas specialist
Delphis. I know all the people and the when growing up, or who have simply Exmar. His aunt Virginie has worked in
departments. not been afforded the opportunity to the legal department of both Bocimar
study, can still enjoy great success. and Exmar.
“My experience of the container
crisis has been helpful, as I can apply But Alexander is quick to Alexander is the eldest of four
what I learned there to dry bulk. The acknowledge that many advantages brothers, two of whom are active at CMB:
most important thing is to safeguard still emanate from being a member of a Ludovic joined as chief financial officer
the 60 or so vessels that are exposed. shipping family. last year and Michael runs the chartering
I must very quickly make sure things desk. Second-born Sebastian has opted
are stable. “You see things, meet people for a career in agriculture.
and benefit from a huge network of
“It is all part of shipping. You have expertise,” he says but adds that this Is sibling rivalry an issue? Working
good years and you have bad years. It is does come at price. “You also have to with family has more benefits than
just that the movements are brutal.” prove yourself. You have to be seen to challenges, says Alexander.
be worth it [your position]”.
Despite having two law degrees and “Everyone has strengths and
an MBA in his back pocket, Alexander The Saverys family shipping weaknesses and everyone does what they
believes no amount of education can interests are vast and there seems to are good at and they do it well. For us,
adequately prepare someone for a be a family member in every sector or the family model works well,” he says.
discipline.
32 | Lloyd’s List Next Generation 2015 | www.lloydslist.com
