Louise Tanguy, Recruiter for Maritime and Logistics at Logistics United B.V., will address the breakbulk industry at AntwerpXL, highlighting the critical recruitment challenges the sector faces if it fails to adapt. AntwerpXL, the award-winning global breakbulk, project cargo, heavy lift, and RoRo event, is a platform for industry professionals to discuss and innovate solutions.
Breakbulk remains a cornerstone of global logistics and trade, yet the sector is increasingly struggling to fill crucial roles. The myth of the “perfect candidate” is proving to be a significant barrier, with industry experts warning that the pursuit of an ideal candidate is both unrealistic and counterproductive. Instead, Tanguy and other leaders will advocate for a shift in recruitment strategies to meet the sector’s pressing talent needs.
The Complexities of Breakbulk Recruitment
The breakbulk sector, which involves the transportation of goods that cannot be containerised due to size or weight, requires a unique blend of expertise. Professionals in this field must navigate complex logistics, understand diverse cargo types, and ensure safe handling practices. Given the specialised nature of breakbulk operations, companies often struggle to find candidates who meet all the desired criteria.
“The breakbulk industry is incredibly nuanced, and expecting to find candidates who check every box is setting the bar unattainably high,” says Tanguy. “While technical skills are critical, the industry also benefits from adaptability, problem-solving abilities, and a strong understanding of global trade dynamics. These qualities are often developed through experience rather than formal qualifications.”
Recruitment Challenges: A Sector in Transition
As global trade patterns shift and supply chain complexities increase, the breakbulk industry faces several recruitment hurdles.
The sector is grappling with skill gaps, as there is a shortage of professionals who possess the necessary technical expertise and hands-on experience specific to breakbulk logistics. Traditional training programs often fail to address the unique requirements of the industry, leading to a scarcity of well-rounded candidates. Compounding this issue is an ageing workforce, with many seasoned professionals nearing retirement, which creates a knowledge gap that younger, less experienced workers find difficult to bridge.
As well as this the industry increasingly integrates new technologies to enhance efficiency and there is a growing need for candidates who are both tech-savvy and knowledgeable about breakbulk operations—a combination that is proving hard to find. Finally, with rising competition for talent across various industries, attracting and retaining skilled workers has become a significant challenge. The breakbulk sector, often overshadowed by more prominent logistics fields, struggles to capture the interest of younger professionals.
Rethinking Recruitment: Solutions for the Future
To address these challenges, industry leaders are advocating for a more flexible approach to recruitment. Rather than searching for the “perfect candidate,” companies should focus on identifying candidates with transferable skills, strong potential and a willingness to learn. By investing in training and development, businesses can cultivate the necessary skills within their workforce.
“We need to move away from the idea that there’s a single ‘perfect’ candidate out there,” says Tanguy. “Instead, we should focus on identifying individuals who are eager to grow and adapt. With the right training and mentorship, they can develop into the professionals our industry needs.”
Emphasising Training and Development
To bridge the skill gap, companies are encouraged to implement robust training programs that focus on the specific needs of the breakbulk industry. This includes both technical training and opportunities for hands-on experience. Mentorship programs, where seasoned professionals can pass on their knowledge to the next generation, are also crucial.
“By investing in our workforce and creating a culture of continuous learning, we can ensure the long-term success of our industry,” adds Tanguy. “The focus should be on building a pipeline of talent that can evolve with the industry, rather than waiting for the perfect candidate to come along.”
Attracting New Talent
To attract new talent, the breakbulk industry must also work on enhancing its appeal. This could involve partnerships with educational institutions to create specialised training programs, as well as efforts to raise awareness about the opportunities within the sector on the platforms where the new talent is hanging out such as TikTok.
To truly diversify and strengthen the talent pool, the breakbulk industry also needs to focus on attracting more women to the sector. Historically male-dominated, the industry stands to gain immensely from the unique perspectives and skills that women can bring. By fostering an inclusive environment and actively promoting gender diversity, the breakbulk industry can tap into a broader range of talents, drive innovation, and improve problem-solving capabilities. This effort could include targeted outreach, mentorship programs, and creating a work culture that supports the advancement of women, ensuring they see the breakbulk industry as a viable and exciting career option.
“We need to do a better job of telling our story,” says Tanguy. “The breakbulk industry offers a dynamic and rewarding career path, but we need to make sure that message is reaching the right people.”
Conclusion
The breakbulk industry’s recruitment challenges are a reflection of its complexity and the rapid pace of change in global logistics. By shifting the focus from finding the perfect candidate to nurturing potential talent, the sector can overcome these hurdles and ensure its continued growth and success. The future of breakbulk lies not in perfection, but in adaptability, training, and the willingness to invest in the next generation of industry professionals.
Partnerships formed over 3 days during the award-winning global breakbulk, project cargo, heavy lift & roro AXL event in Antwerp on 8-10 October, will be pivotal in forming partnerships that drive innovation and sustainability, making the transport of specialised cargo faster, easier, and more environmentally friendly.
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