Stories: People

Every day, millions of tonnes of cargo move across global waters, driving industries and powering economies. Ensuring these shipments reach their destinations safely, efficiently, and on time is no small task – it requires precision, resilience, and deep industry knowledge.

At the forefront of this fast-paced world is Esther Lee, Head of Chartering & Operations at Golden Agri Maritime. She is responsible for making sure GAR’s and its customers’ shipments are delivered on schedule, no matter the challenge.

Her career in maritime has been shaped by challenges, from navigating unpredictable supply chains to managing global fleets. But for Esther, leadership isn’t about fitting in; it is about standing out, while inspiring others to do the same.

Rising above the tide: A journey into maritime

Esther’s path into the maritime industry was far from traditional. A recreational diver in her younger years, she always felt a connection to the ocean.

“The maritime industry, whether within a corporation or on a global scale, offers so many career possibilities,” she says. “Being part of an ocean-related industry was always a dream for me.”

However, when she started her career in the early 2000s, gender discrimination was still prevalent. Networking opportunities were few, and female role models were rarer.

“It was difficult at the start,” Esther admits. “There weren’t many women in leadership positions to look up to. But in the past decade, things have improved significantly. There’s a growing recognition of expertise over stereotypes, and I’m grateful to be part of that change.”

Today, Esther has firmly established herself in the field. She now oversees the movement of vessels across global waters, ensuring GAR’s products – from palm oil to biodiesel and oleochemicals – reach customers efficiently and reliably.

Steering through challenges: Lessons from the high seas

Shipping is a 24/7 operation, and even the slightest delay can disrupt global supply chains. Timely deliveries are essential to keeping businesses running smoothly.

Esther’s role involves managing multiple time zones, navigating geopolitical risks, and responding to disruptions such as port congestion or extreme weather. With operations spanning Asia, the Atlantic, and the Pacific, she must remain agile, constantly adjusting to shifting global conditions to keep shipments on track.

“To make the right decisions, I rely on strong communication and alignment across teams,” she shares. “You need to anticipate challenges before they escalate, whether it’s securing alternative routes or renegotiating berthing slots.”

For Esther, no challenge is ever tackled alone. “Collaboration is key,” she says. “Good teamwork is everything. You can’t navigate tricky situations by yourself; it depends on trust and alignment within the team.”

Charting a greener maritime with innovation and sustainability

Esther’s commitment to operational excellence is matched by her dedication to sustainability. Under her leadership, Golden Agri Maritime is advancing greener shipping, investing in Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and biofuel-powered vessels, fitting ships with scrubbers, and exploring methanol-fuelled options for a lower-carbon future.

“Sustainability in shipping is now an operational imperative. Customers are looking for partners who can move cargo responsibly, and we’re committed to making that happen,” Esther explains.

But sustainability is just one piece of the puzzle. Esther sees technology as a game changer, with AI and blockchain set to transform maritime operations. She believes adaptability is key in this evolving landscape. “The industry moves fast. Embracing change helps us stay competitive and shape what comes next,” she says.

Leaving a legacy and inspiring future leader

As the maritime industry continues to evolve, Esther hopes her journey will inspire more women to enter and thrive in the sector. She understands the importance of mentorship and visibility, especially in an industry where female representation has traditionally been low.

“As more women step into leadership roles, the industry will continue to improve,” she says. “I hope to be an inspiration for others. There’s space for anyone willing to learn, adapt, and push boundaries.” Esther’s story proves that breaking barriers in the maritime world is not just about navigating the seas, but about navigating the challenges and opportunities that shape an industry.

At Golden Agri Maritime, we drive seamless global trade, transporting palm oil, biodiesel, and more with efficiency, sustainability, and innovation. Discover how we keep supply chains moving forward.