Clerc makes shift in Maersk’s approach to future crises

The Maersk chief exec sees no value in speculating on the next shock in global trade and instead wants to strengthen the container group’s resilience.

It’s impossible to plan for the world’s geopolitical shifts, according to Maersk CEO Vincent Clerc, who has therefore shifted his focus from detailed scenario planning to adaptability.

“Instead of trying to guess what will happen next, we’re focusing on becoming more adaptable when the next thing happens,” says Clerc.

He points out that no one at Maersk had anticipated prolonged disruptions such as the closure of the Red Sea and uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, and that even large cash reserves cannot eliminate that uncertainty.

Maersk is therefore working to build systems and processes that make it possible to quickly adjust routes, capacity, and costs when new shocks hit.

At the same time, Maersk is experiencing more one-way global trade, with full ships sailing from Asia to Europe and half-full ships returning, which, according to Clerc, creates structural inefficiencies that the company must address through ongoing adjustments.

Source:ShippingWatch