Laurie Smith . . . role of ships' agents is becoming pivotal
Terry Hutson
CARGO OWNERS and shipping lines are under tremendous financial pressure as a result of delays in the system, which translates into additional pressure on the agents in the port who are trying to turn vessels around as quickly as possible Ð sometimes under difficult circumstances, says Rennies Ship's Agency's new man at the top, Laurie Smith.
"There are areas of conflict between cargo owners, the shipping lines and terminal operators, but there is also a lot of common ground on which we can all build and move forward, interfacing with government on the roll-out of the Port Reform Programme and much needed port efficiencies."
He says that, far from declining, the role of ships' agents is actually becoming pivotal, especially in South Africa where there are disruptions in the chain.
"It requires more effort in terms of information, planning and supervision of the under-hook flows and this keeps agents very busy indeed."
Smith was appointed MD of SA's oldest and largest ships agency from July 1, and brings to the position a lengthy list of industry credentials and experience. He has been with Rennies for over 30 years and in that time has worked in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Richards Bay and at head office in Durban, covering the clearing & forwarding and terminal sectors of the business as well as ships agency.
