A day in the life of a Sales Manager in UECC’s Sales & Marketing department

-Portraying: Petra Ridderheim

My journey into the maritime industry and ultimately landing at UECC is a result of my genuine passion for logistics and the maritime industry. My story begins with a humble curiosity and a desire to understand the complex details of the business, which led me to pursue a university degree at Chalmers University of Technology.

Ocean shipping serves as a fundamental component of the supply chain for various sectors, and I was drawn to the crucial role it plays in global trade. The maritime industry handles approximately 80% of global goods transportation, making it a dynamic and essential field to be a part of.

More than a decade ago, I made the bold decision to relocate to Oslo, marking the beginning of a new and rewarding chapter in my career. Since becoming part of UECC, I have enthusiastically taken on diverse responsibilities, starting from our Trade Operational- team to Business Development. Subsequently, I progressed into my current position as a Sales Manager, a role that I have held for the past four years now.

The Sales team is a critical function within UECC and in any organization aspiring to boost business expansion through effective sales strategies. A typical day in my shoes is vibrant, challenging, and filled with a variety of tasks.

The Sales team of UECC consists of a team spread across Europe, and I am located at the headquarters in Oslo, Norway. As a Sales Manager at UECC, I oversee 17 accounts, distributed across Europe, North America, and Asia, catering to small and large accounts. My daily tasks cover a wide range of responsibilities; client meetings, nurturing and establishing relationships, pursuing leads, negotiations, finalizing new agreements and renewals of existing long-term contracts.

Moreover, a significant aspect of a sales manager's role requires wide reporting, covering sales metrics, volume forecasts, along with general business updates. We also engage in marketing initiatives to showcase UECC’s service portfolio.?

My approach to my work is characterized by a sincere appreciation for the industry and the opportunity to make a positive impact. I have a genuine dedication and enthusiasm for fostering open and collaborative relationships, and I value the importance of understanding my customers' unique needs.

Communication is the pillar of a successful partnership in my view, and I place great emphasis on teamwork, recognizing that the synergy between suppliers and customers is essential for mutual growth and success.

Similar to the developments in other transportation sectors, we in the short-sea shipping sector have seen significant changes in recent years; for example, the establishment of numerous new electric vehicle manufacturers, and the introduction of green initiatives and regulations. These ongoing developments are set to be captivating to monitor, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be involved in this dynamic journey.