In our special column this time, we are pleased to feature an interview with Peter Jameson, Managing Director and Partner at Boston Consulting Group, who is excited to contribute to the shift towards more sustainable practices in the maritime industry.
Peter has believed in the potential of maritime decarbonization from its early stages, even when others were skeptical. Despite the challenges, he remains motivated by the ultimate goal of decarbonization, urging the industry to accelerate its efforts to address climate challenges and adopt greener practices. His positive mindset in finding opportunities within every challenge has enabled him to move forward and support the industry’s ambitious goals. Peter draws inspiration from Tanja Ebbe Dalgaard, a member of the executive leadership team at The Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, who is navigating sustainability in the industry’s complex landscape.
SAFETY4SEA: How did it come about that you joined the shipping industry and your field of expertise specifically?
Peter Jameson: My career began as a Royal Navy officer in the submarine service, where I developed a deep understanding of maritime operations. This experience led me to focus on advising companies on their green transition journey. I am now a Managing Director & Partner at Boston Consulting Group, where I specialize in helping the maritime industry achieve environmental sustainability while ensuring economic sustainability, driven by the belief that both must go hand in hand for effective long-term solutions.
S4S: What about your current job/role most excites you and why?
P.J.: What excites me most about my role is the opportunity to drive change in maritime decarbonization. Contributing to the shift towards more sustainable practices in the industry, and tackling the complex challenges involved, is incredibly fulfilling. The impact of these efforts on both the environment and the industry’s future keeps me motivated.
S4S: When you think of the word successful, who’s the first person who comes to mind and why?
P.J.: Bill Gates comes to mind as a symbol of success. His commitment to global health and sustainability, coupled with his philanthropic efforts, exemplifies how success can be used to drive meaningful change in the world.
S4S: Who is/was the most influential person/mentor to you and why?
P.J.: Tanja Ebbe Dalgaard stands out as a role model due to her remarkable ability to cut through complexity and drive impactful change in the maritime sector. As a member of the executive leadership team at The Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping, her relentless pursuit of sustainability and adept navigation of complex stakeholder landscapes exemplify leadership qualities that are both inspiring and exemplary. Her approach serves as a powerful model for many in the industry.
S4S: What is the best and what was the worst piece of advice you’ve ever been given and why?
P.J.: The best advice I received was to lead with the goal of helping others become the best versions of themselves. This has profoundly impacted my approach to leadership. Conversely, the worst advice was to view feedback as an insult. I’ve learned that every piece of feedback is a valuable gift and an opportunity for growth.
S4S: What is the most worthwhile career investment (in energy, time, money) you’ve ever made?
P.J.: Investing in maritime decarbonization at a time when others were skeptical has been the most worthwhile. Sticking with this early-stage vision despite the challenges has been crucial in driving significant progress in the field.
S4S: If you could give a piece of advice to your 18-year-old self, what would it be and why? What piece of advice should you ignore?
P.J.: I would advise my younger self to embrace lifelong learning and stay resilient in the face of challenges. Ignoring the advice to play it safe would have encouraged a more adventurous approach to career opportunities.
S4S: In the last five years, what new belief, behavior, or habit has most improved your business life?
P.J.: I’ve developed a belief in finding opportunities within challenges. For instance, in maritime decarbonization, despite the high costs and slow adoption, identifying pockets of value has enabled me to drive forward and create a positive movement.
S4S: What would you like to change in the current maritime landscape and your area of expertise specifically and why?
P.J.: There are many powerful individuals and organizations in the maritime industry who are currently sitting on the fence regarding sustainability. Now is not the time for indecision; it is the time for decisive action. For those in positions of power, it is crucial to recognize their responsibility to society and the planet. I advocate for a greater emphasis on proactive measures in maritime decarbonization, urging the industry to accelerate its efforts to address climate challenges and adopt greener practices.
S4S: What is your personal motto?
P.J.: “Kindness doesn’t cost anything but has immeasurable impact.”
The views presented are only those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of SAFETY4SEA and are for information sharing and discussion purposes only.
