Yntze Buitenwerf is general manager of Seatrade Reefer Chartering and has been with the company for 25 years.
Fruitnet.com: How did your career in the fresh produce industry begin?
YB: I was called in 1986 by one of the owners of the company at that time. He asked me if I would be interested in a job at Seatrade. At that time I had no clue what reefers were all about, except that the ships were nicely painted white and considered the fastest commercial vessels in the maritime world.
In a parallel life, what industry would you have been in instead of this one?
YB: That’s a very easy question: I would have become a musician. I was invited to join an 18-month world tour as a bass player with Amy Grant. Four months prior to joining Seatrade, the tour manager announced that the tour was going to be delayed by a year. At that particular time I played in various bands and sometimes performed four evenings a week.
What do you see as the greatest challenge facing the global fresh produce industry at the moment?
YB: To keep up with all the changes. World trade is continuously growing, while specialised transport is challenged by mainstream container carriers. Our bespoke taxi service will keep a role in the enormous web of container bus services.
What would you say is your favourite item of fresh produce?
YB: Every day we supply fresh fruit to our employees at our various offices. To be honest it has helped me to improve my fruit consumption. I normally eat a banana a day, supplemented by a kiwi, an apple, grapes, citrus or lychees. I basically like everything, which is part of my challenge as it also applies to other food!
What do you enjoy in particular about your job and what, if anything, would you change?
YB: The variety and people I work with. The reefer industry is like a big family and most people know each other. The general mood is friendly, which makes our job very pleasurable. Of course each party has to defend its own interests and that adds to the enjoyment and satisfaction of our daily lives.
Who do you admire most in the industry and why?
YB: Those who are able to win and lose without getting frustrated.
Would you encourage your children to work in the industry? Why?
YB: Yes, I would, but so far I have not been successful. They are still young, so one never knows, but so far they are more interested in other things, such as music. Maybe they will go into my parallel career.
What do you do to unwind after a tough day at work?
YB: I play the piano, bass or guitar and sing. I also enjoy running and try to do a half marathon at least two or three times a year. Not for setting a record, but to somehow control my weight! And, last but not least, being with my family and friends.
