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Michael Aasted

Getting the right parts to the right place at the right time

Michael Aasted2

Michael Aasted, Procurement and Logistics Manager

 

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

I am Danish, 50 years old, and have three fantastic children. I would call myself a ‘sports freak’, as I love watching sports of all kinds, particularly handball, football, and tennis. I used to play handball at a high level in the national under-21 team in Denmark. I might have turned pro, but an ankle injury made it clear that I should also get a real job! However, I like staying fit and healthy, and run marathons.

 

When and why did you join Fred. Olsen Windcarrier?

I had been working at AH Industries making large steel components for wind turbines. Ten years ago, a good opportunity arose at Fred. Olsen Windcarrier, and thought working with offshore energy could be an interesting and natural step for my career. It was a good decision!

What is your role at Fred. Olsen Windcarrier?

I am Procurement and Logistics Manager. This means I have to source, develop, and manage our supplier network, and make sure the entire logistics process happens as smoothly as possible. In essence, it is my responsibility to make sure the right components turn up in the right place at the right time.

This is a crucial part of the process. We often work to strict timelines, either to meet our clients’ needs or to take advantage of optimal weather conditions, so our vessels must have everything they need, when they need it, for the project to go ahead.

This can be, for example, steel structures to fasten the towers and blades to the deck, lifting equipment, and of course the wind turbine components themselves.

Typically, I also need to be on the vessels to make sure everything happens as planned, which is a part of my job I really enjoy. With Covid, of course, this has not always been possible in recent years.

 

"Offshore wind is a very exciting business to be in. I get a huge thrill from being on our vessels and working with the vast components that make up today’s wind turbines" - Michael Aasted

What challenges do you typically face, and how do you solve them?

This can change from project to project. We have been operating in Asia the last few years where the offshore wind industry is relatively new, and we have had challenges finding and engaging with local suppliers which has relevant experience for our needs.  

Usually, I would meet new suppliers in person to assess their capabilities and build a good relationship, however with Covid restrictions this had to be done via online meetings, which is not always as productive. Nevertheless, during the pandemic we all pulled together to make this work, and I’m pleased to say that we now have a good pool of trusted suppliers, which is constantly growing.

 

Another challenge is working with local regulations, which can vary significantly depending on which part of the world you are in. In the US, for example, you have a completely different set of rules for offshore projects, and when operating a foreign vessel you are subject to restrictions. This is where good relationships with local suppliers can be a huge benefit.  

What excites you most about your job?

Offshore wind is a very exciting business to be in. I get a huge thrill from being on our vessels and working with the vast components that make up today’s wind turbines. Boys do love their toys!

I also value the independence I get in my job. I have the freedom to shape my role as necessary to get the best result, which is something I appreciate enormously. 

I work alongside an energetic and inspiring team, some of whom also work with our jack-up vessels and others who are more involved with our cruise ships, but it is also great to be given the autonomy to get the job done in the way I want to.

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