Leon Smulders

Chief Operational Officer

Leon Smulders (Dutch) joined the company in 2022. He has a strong track record in business growth and new business development, both as a strategy consultant and general manager. In 1997, Leon started his career at KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. He worked as a strategy consultant for Arthur D. Little, Quintel and AT Kearney in many industries, focusing on operations and maintenance. And after that, he held (general) management positions in various companies. His key strengths are in problem-solving, quantitative analysis, sales, operations and improvement of team effectiveness.

We asked Leon a few questions about himself:

1. What do you like most about working at Mr. Marine?

There are three things that make me really happy at Mr. Marine: the team, the shipping sector and our mission. It’s a privilege to work with a team of colleagues and investors so motivated, knowledgeable, customer friendly and fun. I like the international dynamics of the shipping sector and our mission: keeping vessels safe and compliant anywhere in the world. And I want to see our company grow into a global market leader.

2. What is your greatest achievement at work?

Difficult to answer… I believe all great achievements are the result of teamwork. I am proud of being part of teams that make these achievements. At home having a happy family with my wife and three, almost, grown-up kids. And at work being part of a great team of Marine specialists.

3. What motivates you?

To be happy and healthy, to share joy and success with family and friends and to grow a successful business in the shipping sector that keeps vessels safe and compliant.

4. What do you love most about what you do?

Again, the team, the shipping sector and the mission of Mr. Marine.

5. What is the best work advice you have ever received?

To make sure that you enjoy the work you do and to always be confident about your own abilities.

6. What was the most valuable lesson you learned while working at Mr. Marine?

I am learning every day…. Time will tell what the most valuable lesson is.

7. What are your future career plans (goals)?

My plan focuses on growing Mr. Marine to become the global nr 1 testing, inspection and certification company for a wide range of vessel systems. And to make Mr. Marine a great place to work.