Bulgaria
Chief Officer — Container / Specialised Cargo Operations BKD Logistics | 2026 – Present Serving as Chief Officer on a container/specialised cargo vessel engaged in international trade, with responsibility for cargo operations, ship stability, deck department management, safety leadership and onboard compliance. Key responsibilities include planning and supervising cargo loading, stowage, securing and discharge; maintaining safe stability, trim and draft conditions; coordinating deck maintenance and hull/deck machinery upkeep; and managing the daily work of the deck crew in accordance with SOLAS, MARPOL, ISM Code, company SMS and flag/class requirements. Acting as Ship Security Officer and onboard Safety Officer, with responsibility for safety routines, emergency preparedness, firefighting and damage-control team leadership. The role requires close coordination with the Master, Chief Engineer, terminal representatives, agents and shore management to ensure safe operations, timely reporting, defect follow-up and operational readiness.
Served as Chief Officer / Senior Deck Officer on container vessels operating in Baltic and North European waters, with responsibility for cargo operations, bridge watchkeeping, voyage planning, shipboard safety and deck department coordination. Planned and supervised container cargo operations, including loading, stowage, securing, discharge preparation and operational coordination with terminals. Monitored vessel stability, trim, draft and cargo-related limitations to support safe and efficient port and sea passages. Contributed to safe navigation, bridge team management and voyage execution in demanding trading areas, including seasonal and ice-affected Baltic conditions. Ensured compliance with SOLAS, MARPOL, ISM Code, COLREGs, company SMS and flag/class requirements. Supported crew training, drills and onboard safety routines, including firefighting, environmental protection, emergency preparedness and practical compliance with MARPOL and safety procedures. Coordinated deck maintenance, documentation, passage planning records and operational reporting to support vessel readiness and safe performance.
Stepping from the bridge to the classroom, my role was to translate decades of hands-on experience into critical lessons for the next generation of mariners. I moved beyond theory, focusing on the real-world application of advanced shiphandling, risk assessment, and command decision-making under pressure. My lectures were built on real case studies from my career, challenging cadets to develop the situational awareness and leadership essential for effective bridge resource management. It was a privilege to directly mentor future officers, equipping them with the practical skills and commander's mindset needed to excel at sea. Focus Areas: Advanced Ship Handling, Navigation (BRM, ECDIS), Crisis Decision-Making, and Mariner Mentorship.
Managing Adventure Charters in Philippines. Training crews for company catamarans.