BW LPG
51
number of VLGC vessels owned and operated by BW LPG
“ It’ s my job to sign a contract with a good company,” says Ricardo.“ In this case, MCTC does not only come up with the ingredients, in the right place, at the right time; they provide recipes, nutrition plans and cooking classes.“ They go one step above and beyond.”
Navigating geopolitical turbulence BW LPG operates in an increasingly volatile world. COVID-19 demonstrated the risks of supply chain concentration, particularly dependence on China, and the company has since diversified strategic suppliers and routes.
Current tariff uncertainties pose particular challenges. With 15 dry dockings scheduled in China, ever-changing tariff rules create cost uncertainty.
Ricardo ensures BW LPG maintains flexibility to shift between shipyards rapidly:“ We try to look at the geopolitical developments and, wherever we are in a position to act on it, we will do it.”
The company has hired consultants to advise on climate change through 2050. This forward-looking analysis examines temperature rises, sea level changes and regional variations.
“ We are already looking into what that means for BW LPG and how we should anticipate,” Ricardo adds.“ We are capable of making shifts really fast.”
This responsiveness has helped navigate tariff disruptions, which Ricardo identifies as having the biggest recent impact.
Developing future-ready teams Ricardo rejects passive career development, instead requiring each buyer in his team to create a personal development plan defining their oneyear, two-year and five-year goals.
“ I’ m not doing anything for you – you cannot expect anything from me,” he tells his team, with what he calls classic Dutch directness.
60 January 2026