Maritime recruitment crisis threatens global shipping

Maritime recruitment crisis threatens global shipping
Carmela I. Huelar November 26, 2025 https://www.manilatimes.net/2025/11/26/business/maritime/maritime-recrui...

THE global shipping industry faces a critical challenge as the demand for highly skilled seafarers outpaces the supply, according to Henrik Jensen, CEO of Danica Crewing Specialists.

In an interview with The Manila Times at the recent 2025 Global Crew Connect event, Jensen outlined the core paradox currently destabilizing maritime recruitment, stressing that traditional hiring strategies are no longer sufficient.

Jensen pinpointed the disconnect between the increasingly stringent demands of ship owners and the shrinking pool of qualified candidates.

“The requirements become higher and higher,” Jensen stated, “and simultaneously, the number of qualified candidates becomes smaller.”

This pressure demands that companies urgently reconsider their recruitment metrics and move beyond simply relying on seniority to fill complex modern roles.

Jensen emphasized that while the company seeks diversification, Filipino seafarers remain a vital and highly valued resource for the industry.

THE global shipping industry faces a critical challenge as the demand for highly skilled seafarers outpaces the supply, according to Henrik Jensen, CEO of Danica Crewing Specialists.

In an interview with The Manila Times at the recent 2025 Global Crew Connect event, Jensen outlined the core paradox currently destabilizing maritime recruitment, stressing that traditional hiring strategies are no longer sufficient.

Jensen pinpointed the disconnect between the increasingly stringent demands of ship owners and the shrinking pool of qualified candidates.

“The requirements become higher and higher,” Jensen stated, “and simultaneously, the number of qualified candidates becomes smaller.”

This pressure demands that companies urgently reconsider their recruitment metrics and move beyond simply relying on seniority to fill complex modern roles.

We are exhausted, Mr. President

Jensen emphasized that while the company seeks diversification, Filipino seafarers remain a vital and highly valued resource for the industry.

HE added, Danica’s current crew management pool of 1,500 to 1,700 seafarers includes a strong contingent of approximately 250 Filipino crew members.

The CEO’s commitment highlights the continued reliance on the professionalism and expertise of the Filipino maritime workforce, which is crucial for maintaining global fleet operations.

Meanwhile, to tackle the widening talent gap, Danica is proactively pioneering a strategy of geographic diversification.

Jensen revealed the company’s strategic expansion into new talent markets, specifically targeting Kenya and other emerging African nations. This move is a recognition that sustainable crewing solutions require looking beyond traditional source countries.

The expansion into Africa signals a crucial industry shift, aiming to develop Kenya as a stable and long-term source of well-trained maritime professionals who can meet the rising qualification standards required by international ship owners.

Looking ahead, Jensen stressed that continuous education and adaptability are paramount for the modern seafarer. He emphasized the urgent need for enhanced training programs to prepare crew members for the industry’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, especially in mastering new maritime technologies and alternative fuel systems.

As global maritime operations grow increasingly complex, industry leaders like Jensen argue that innovative recruitment strategies and a strong focus on future readiness will be crucial for maintaining operational excellence and safety standards worldwide.