A shipbroker acts as an intermediary between the two parties to a contract of carriage, whether they are shipowners or charterers (Cargo Owners) in the international ship chartering market, or buyers and sellers in the ship sales and purchase market. Shipbroking is a complex profession with no formal entry qualifications. A background in business studies, economics and commerce can be helpful, however, aspiring brokers will need to demonstrate tenacity, team-work, innovation and strong negotiating and influencing skills.

The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers of Ireland provides a series of educational courses & qualifications in Shipbroking. To find out more about the profession, please visit this website.

Ship Management covers the range of activities required to ensure an efficient relationship between the ship’s crew and owner, the cargo owners and every other connection point involved in a commercial maritime voyage. Management positions in the maritime industry are available in areas such as port management, ship management, shipping and cargo handling, as well as ship agency, freight forwarding, shipbroking and the relevant state and port state control.

A number of ship management positions are offered in Ireland as there is much activity both in relation to freight movements and ports in this country. To find out more about the profession, please visit this website.

Freight forwarders deal with arranging the movement of goods. It is their job to find the most appropriate and cost-effective way of moving goods between countries, and co-ordinate the arrangements. Freight forwarders speak with carriers to confirm transport arrangements and also liaise with clients, advising them of the costs of transporting goods and the arrangements that have been made.

Ireland’s economy is heavily dependent on imports and exports, therefore a large number of freight forwarding companies are established here. Experience in supply chain management and knowledge of maritime transport is of benefit to candidates interested in a career as a Freight Forwarder. To find out more about the profession, please visit this website.

Marine Insurance is a vital service provision for ships and their cargoes at sea. As a career choice, the sector offers opportunities for both shore based individuals and seafarers wanting to apply their skills and maritime experience to a land based role. Employment in Marine Insurance is often found through specialist companies in the sector or dedicated divisions within insurance corporations. Marine insurance is underwritten through Lloyds of London. To find out more about the profession, please visit this website.

Maritime Economists analyse economic factors involved in marine-related products distribution, they also examine the techniques of finance and recommend improvements. Maritime economists provide outlines on organisational structures of maritime related business concerns and study government regulations and requirements for maritime business. Maritime Economists often forge a career in maritime finance companies, ship owning companies, shipbroking and trading companies or as a maritime credit analyst. To find out more about the profession, please visit this website. 

Marine/Nautical Surveyors provide the vital inspection, assessment and reporting of vessel condition to shipowners, classification societies and maritime finance companies. As is the case with Marine Insurance, a career in Marine Surveying offers opportunities for both shore based individuals and seafarers wanting to move to a land based role. To find out more about the profession, please visit this website.