The Marine Department Youth Group (MDYG) once again collaborated with the Women's International Shipping & Trading Association Hong Kong (WISTA HK) to organise a company visit to Pacific Basin Shipping Limited today.

First, Emily from the Human Resources Department introduced the company's business and gave us a tour of the office facilities. Pacific Basin is one of the world's leading owners and operators of modern Handysize and Supramax dry bulk ships, with a large fleet of approximately 300 ships. It provides shipping services to traders and manufacturer through spot and long term cargo contracts. Pacific Basin Shipping Limited is headquartered in Hong Kong with a network of 14 offices worldwide.

Emily emphasized the company's commitment to employees' health. Hence, the office is equipped with a gym, a spacious rest area for employees to relax as well as yoga classes every Thursday night. The office also has independent soundproofed pods for employees to concentrate on their work.

After the tour of the office, members of the Technical and Crew Departments respectively shared their working experiences at Pacific Basin Shipping. One of the highlights was when a seafarer shared her experiences of life at sea. She said that sailing allows for the opportunity to visit different countries, learn more about different culture and broaden horizons. She also enjoys interacting with people of different nationalities on board. Sailing has provided her with unique experiences that she cannot get on land.

Following the insightful talk from Technical and Crew Departments, another member of the Human Resources Department enlightened us on the company's career development opportunities. They have well-defined career paths and encourage fresh graduates to apply, regardless of their relevant experience. The company provides three months of professional training for new employees and promotes them to be proactive in learning new things.

In closing members of the Chartering, Operation, and Investment Departments shared the characteristics of their respective departments. An example is that they need to have a keen sense of the global economy and closely monitor the market trends and developments to enhance market competitiveness. Pacific Shipping has recently set up a new office in Dubai, which show that they're confident in the local shipping industry. The company also takes a series of sustainable development measures, including carbon reduction in their fleet, employee safety, diversity and equal opportunities.

After this visit, I have gained a deep understanding of how Pacific Basin operates and how the different departments coordinate and arrange their work. Every speaker expressed that they face new challenges and interesting things at work every day, and they enjoy the satisfaction that their work brings.