Meet Martin who thrives on high-pressure challenges and building strong teams

The value of fellowship

- My journey at VARD has been characterized by strategic career progression and actively pursuing my goal of becoming a Project Manager within the VARD Group, Martin reflects. He has learned a lot, and believes some of the most important components has been seizing opportunities and building strong relationships and teams.

– In VARD we have a unique mix of people, some have been here a lifetime, and some just joined the team. When I took on the role as both Project Manager and later VP Project Manager, I joined well established teams at the yards where building trust and aligning expectations within these pre-existing teams were essential for project success, Martin explains, highlighting that integrating into established teams is never guaranteed.

- I’m proud to say that by building trust and respect, we've not only achieved project success and cultivated strong working relationships, but also personal friendships. In my eyes this is a true testament to the value of fellowship we have in VARD, and I feel proud to have been a part of fostering this type of environment in my projects.

Culture of opportunity

Martin is clear that his career at VARD exemplifies the company's commitment to fostering a culture of opportunity. As a global organization with diverse operations, VARD empowers employees to explore new challenges and pursue their ambitions. - I wholeheartedly encourage my colleagues to seize these opportunities and drive their careers forward. There is this quote I really like, “Never judge the future of a person in their current situation. Time has the power to change black coal into a shiny diamond”

- VARD is synonymous with opportunities, he says.

- Our global reach and integration within the Fincantieri Group create a dynamic environment where challenges and growth prospects are many. We are constantly seeking individuals who embrace challenges and are ready to shape the future of the maritime industry.

A focus on teamwork and leadership

As VP Project Manager, Martin’s primary focus is ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. This involves typical project management tasks like managing risks, contracts, and client relationships. However, he believes that his most important responsibility is building strong, cohesive teams. - I focus on creating an environment where team members feel trusted and empowered to do their best work. Together we celebrate successes and learn from challenges. My goal is to build teams that consistently delivers amazing results.

Sounds like a job with lots of responsibility. When do you perform at your best?

- I’m in my optimal zone when I experience high workload and pressure, typically in the initiation or the pre-delivery phase of a project. These periods are often very dynamic and challenging, and they foster the collaborative and problem-solving spirit we have in VARD to utilize the team’s collective expertise.

That OneTeam spirit

Martin finds the collaborative atmosphere at VARD particularly rewarding, and how that enables everyone to accomplish extraordinary things together. - Each project is unique and requires high dedication from the project teams. Watching everyone’s unwavering commitment and hard work is truly inspiring. I am fortunate that I get to work with such a talented and experienced group of individuals daily, Martin says and continues: - At the end of a successful project when we have the naming ceremony together with colleagues, partners, and family to celebrate and watch how our efforts have come together is an unparalleled reward.

So – what is your advice for aspiring professionals?

- You will make mistakes, but don’t regret them. Learn from them.