In Conversation with Koos Zumkehr: “Have more understanding for each other. In the end, we have to do it together.”

After more than 42 years with Wagenborg, an impressive career is coming to an end. Koos Zumkehr completed his final working day on 1 October. While his official retirement begins on 31 March, a new chapter has already started. It is a perfect moment to look back on his career, the changes he has witnessed over the years, and the people who have played an important role in his journey.

Koos, how did you end up at Wagenborg?
"When I was studying at the HEAO, a teacher asked me what I wanted to do in the future. Well, something involving people, trading and languages. Later, he came back with two companies in Delfzijl where those three things came together: Wijnne & Barends and Wagenborg. With some encouragement from my family, I chose Wagenborg."

Wagenborg grew into an internationally operating shipping company during those years. What has the company brought you as a person?
"A sense of family. My father ran his own business as well. You solve things together. That has always been important to me. At Wagenborg, you can achieve a lot if you are willing to put in the effort. I have always felt that you are given the opportunity to develop yourself and seize new opportunities."

What has always been the most important aspect of your work?
"The people. My colleagues, and I really mean everyone. I want people to feel they can come to me when they need something. That includes the fleet as well. The captains taught me a great deal at the start of my career. In the end, this is a product of all of us working together."

You often sum up your view on business in one sentence.
"Listen to your customer, understand their product, their market and their needs. Be honest and realistic, and know what you are selling. It is really that simple. In the past, business was built much more on trust. Deals were often made with a handshake and a mutual understanding. Today, everything is done through tenders and comparisons. However, one thing has never changed: you need to know who your competitors are, what they can offer, and where your own strengths lie. Build a relationship with your customer. In the end, you have to trust your own product, knowledge, expertise and capabilities."

Is there one memory that really stands out?
"Yes, a contract that was agreed during the COVID period. Many ships were standing still and sailing empty, and market conditions were extremely challenging. "We were negotiating a new contract with an existing customer in the eastern Mediterranean. I had known that customer for decades and decided to approach things differently. I simply said: give me the price that you believe will secure a deal if I accept it. No more bargaining. When I called the office afterwards, they asked me what the contract would generate. I said: 'No idea, because I had not even made the calculations yet.' In the end, it turned out very well. A good risk to take."

If you had to name one quality that helped you the most, what would it be?
"Listening. Many people talk more than they listen. If you genuinely listen to others, you get closer to each other. Once you stop doing that, you lose something important. My wife Chelo taught me how strong family ties are in Spain and how quickly conflicts are discussed and resolved there. I think we could learn something from that in the Netherlands."

What advice would you like to give the next generation?
"If you truly enjoy something, keep pursuing it. There are plenty of opportunities, but you need to take them yourself. Be patient, show initiative and discuss your ambitions with your manager. Be proactive. Keep meeting each other in person, talk face to face and show understanding. It prevents a lot of confusion."

What are you most proud of when you look back?
"The opportunities I was given to grow, become independent and take responsibility. I am also grateful for the trust I received from the Board of Directors. Together with a stable home life, that allowed me to enjoy my work throughout my career."

What are you looking forward to as retirement approaches?
"Not having to do everything anymore. I have always been very punctual and work brings a lot of demands and distractions. I am looking forward to having a little more peace of mind. I plan to take up kickboxing, play golf and billiards, and spend plenty of time with my grandchildren. What I will really miss, though, is the social side of working with colleagues."

Is there a message you would like to leave behind?
"Empathy. I think that word deserves to be written in bigger letters. Have some understanding for each other. We do not always know what someone else is going through. If we improve that, we will remain a strong company."

And how would you like to be remembered?

"If people say, 'He could be a bit of a pain sometimes, but he left things in good shape,' I would happily sign for that."

"I would like to thank everyone for the wonderful cooperation over the years. At the same time, I wish all of you every success in continuing to develop this great, healthy and proud family business."