Benj Morrison, Harbour Master of the Port of Aberdeen, emphasizes the significance of seizing opportunities and proactively pursuing goals to cultivate an active approach in both professional and personal pursuits.
He advocates for a shift in focus within the maritime industry towards future generations and environmental sustainability. Morrison stresses the importance of embracing innovation and navigating organizational changes with determination and resilience to steer towards a sustainable future.
SAFETY4SEA: How did it come about that you joined shipping industry and your field of expertise specifically?
Benji Morrison: Joining the shipping industry was a natural progression fuelled by my upbringing near the sea. Enrolling in merchant navy during high school solidified my passion. Post-graduation, nautical college enhanced my career path, leading me into maritime and shipping since 2002.
S4S: What about your current job/ role most excites you and why?
B.M.: Transitioning to Harbour Master excites me, offering a dynamic role where every day brings new challenges. Managing marine operations at Port of Aberdeen demands adaptability and ensures each day is filled with diverse tasks, fostering a stimulating environment.
S4S: Who is/was the most influential person/mentor to you & why?
B.M.: My father stands as a pivotal figure, advocating a balanced work-life approach and instilling values of equality and fairness. Throughout my education and career, numerous mentors shaped my journey, offering guidance and encouragement, ultimately influencing my professional ethos.
S4S: What is the best and what was the worst piece of advice you’ve ever been given and why?
B.M.: The best advice received emphasised resilience and hard work, guiding me through challenges. Conversely, disregarding worries proved detrimental. It underscored the importance of addressing concerns proactively rather than dismissing them.
S4S: What is the most worthwhile career investment (in energy, time, money) you’ve ever made?
B.M.: Attending nautical college remains the most significant career investment. The comprehensive training provided a solid foundation, propelling my career trajectory. Without it, I wouldn’t have reached my current role, highlighting its pivotal role in my professional journey.
S4S: If you could give a piece of advice to your 18-year-old-self one thing, what would it be and why? What piece of advice should you ignore?
B.M.: To my 18-year-old self: Embrace challenges and persevere; obstacles are opportunities for growth. Ignore advice advocating complacency or avoiding challenges. Pushing through difficulties builds resilience and fosters personal and professional development.
S4S: In the last five years, what new belief, behaviour, or habit has most improved your business life?
B.M.: Prioritisation and effective delegation have significantly enhanced my business life. By focusing on essential tasks and leveraging my team’s strengths, productivity and efficiency have soared. Delegating tasks not only empowers team members but also fosters their growth and development.
S4S:What would you like to change in the current maritime landscape and your area of expertise specifically and why?
B.M.: Refocusing attention on future generations and environmental sustainability within the maritime landscape is paramount. Mindful day-to-day operations and embracing innovation are crucial for shaping a safer, greener future. It’s imperative to navigate organisational changes with determination and resilience, steering towards a sustainable future.
S4S:What is your personal motto?
B.M.:“Don’t put off tomorrow, what you can do today.” This motto underscores the importance of seizing opportunities and taking proactive steps towards goals. It instils a sense of urgency and fosters a proactive approach to both professional and personal endeavours.
The views presented are only those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of SAFETY4SEA and are for information sharing and discussion purposes only.
