![](https://svitzer.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Alastair-Martin-Svitzer-1920x1080-web.jpg)
Meet our People – A 25 Year Commitment to Safety
Head of Marine Standards, Alastair Martin, or ‘Ali’ to everyone who knows him – is recognised for his passion for safety and commitment to continuous improvement.
Ali recently passed two significant service milestones – this month marks 10-years with Svitzer but also more than 25-years of service with Maersk.
We asked Ali a few questions about his start in his career, through to today.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I wanted to work in the marine industry from an early age. I’ve managed large ocean-going ships from ashore in the past but working with Svitzer is great as the interface with crew is significantly less distant. In most cases I get on and off our vessels more readily and the opportunity to interact with colleagues in a face-to-face setting is easier and more productive.
How did you get your start with Svitzer?
I have always worked for Maersk, I started as a Cadet and progressed through the ranks to 2nd (First) Engineer sailing on LPG Carriers and Containerships. I saw an internal job advert for a Safety Superintendent, and I took it with a view to just doing it for a couple of years as I thought it would be interesting. But, one thing led to another and I got the opportunity to head up Maersk Tankers HSEQS department in Copenhagen which I did for five years before moving to Svitzer. A former MD who I had sailed with and worked with in the UK reached out to me and said there was an opportunity opening up for a Safety Manager role in Australia. My wife had previously backpacked around Australia and she loved the country so I applied for it and the rest is history.
What’s something surprising about yourself that some people might not know?
I’m a mad, passionate Fremantle Dockers supporter.
![](https://svitzer.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Alastair-Martin-Today-web-768x1024-1.jpg)
What is one highlight you are particularly proud of during your career?
There are many, especially working with such highly talented colleagues ashore and afloat but from a personal perspective it is probably getting the opportunity to chair the marine oil & gas industry safety group – ‘Safer Together’ and its predecessor, ‘MarineSafe’, for three years. To be elected by industry peers and clients to run the group was very special and I felt it enhanced Svitzer’s presence in that area.
What do you enjoy most away from work?
Spending time with my wife Mags and our 6-year-old son Xander. I am away from home a lot with work, so I dedicate as much time as possible to them when I am back from travels.