Our Way 1
VINJETT SAFETY & SECURITY Prepared for change: NA
VIGATING RISK WITH PURPOSE Disruption is nothing new in business, but today’s challenges are more immediate and complex. Climate change, political instability, cyber threats, and economic uncertainty are no longer distant risks; they are reshaping how companies operate. Here, some key voices from within Soya Group share their views on what lies ahead and how preparation, innovation, and responsibility can help turn challenges into opportunity. W 10 OUR WAY 1/2025 allenius Lines CEO Erik Nøklebye identifies three major challenges on the horizon: the economic climate, shifting geopolitics, and the green transition. To him, these are not just challenges but also opportunities to strengthen, adapt, and lead. “Shipping has always been cyclical,” he says. “There are strong markets and weaker ones. We’re used to that. But often, it’s in those market shifts that opportunities arise.” When it comes to the green transition, Erik emphasizes pragmatism and progress. “We want to be an active part of something meaningful—not just for the industry, but for society. We take our responsibility seriously, and we’re heavily focused on innovation and smart partnerships.” WHILE MANY IN the industry place their hopes in technologies and solutions that may not be ready until 2040 or so, Erik insists the time to act is now. “Our approach is step-by-step. We invest in alternative fuels and future-ready vessels that reduce emissions today—not just in the future. While others focus narrowly on carbon intensity, we focus on total emissions. The right solutions will emerge—not by waiting, but by working toward them every day.” Turning to geopolitics, Erik highlights the importance of resilience at home. “Regardless of what happens in the U.S., Russia, or China, we need to focus on resilience at home—our business, our Erik Nøklebye CEO Wallenius Lines country, and Europe. If we are strong, we can keep building partnerships—and support those who are less fortunate.” That responsibility extends beyond business. “We are driven by a deep commitment to democratic values and by the responsibility we feel as citizens,” he says. “That’s why we’re engaged in high-level discussions with government and the military: to understand how we can contribute, and to play an active role in strengthening broader societal resilience.” BEFORE MICHAEL KELLERMANN, Head of Group Security at Soya Group, starts the conversation, he scans his surroundings to ensure no sensitive information is visible in the background. At the time of the interview, he is helping train Ukrainian recruits—one of several initiatives through which Soya Group actively supports Ukraine. “Right now, we are facing a global security environment that has deteriorated significantly in recent years,” Michael explains. “Powerful and dangerous forces are at play. Authoritarian, non-democratic states are actively working to reshape the rulesbased world order into something more polarized. A few countries—led by Russia—believe they have the right to dictate terms to others.” Sweden’s support for Ukraine has made the counMichael Kellermann Head of Group Security Soya Group try—and involved organizations—more exposed. “We are fully aware of the heightened intelligence and sabotage risks currently facing companies and people that take an active role in such support.”