More than a team.
We’re putting the value into maritime.
We are a fast-growing and innovative company that is sustainable by nature with a team that is dedicated to making an impact.
We are using our personality, skills and motivation to help Value Maritime realise a green future for shipping.
Share our passion for sustainable shipping? Come onboard and make shipping greener with us. There’s no time to waste! Reach out to: hr@valuemaritime.com
Management Team
Christiaan Nijst
Title/Area of work
Co-Founder & Director
Otherwise known as:
The Inventor
Value to VM:
Christiaan is our technical ‘clever clogs’ and our award-winner, having won the Nor-Shipping Young Entrepreneur Award 2021. He brings his forward-thinking and brilliant engineering mind to Value Maritime. His breakthrough Filtree System and innovative CO2 Capture Module for ships are transforming the future of sustainable shipping.
Reach out to Christiaan for:
Carbon Capture Insights | Sustainable Engineering | Unique Technology
Frans van den Bospoort
Title/Area of work
Non-Executive Board Member
Otherwise known as:
The Door Opener
Value to VM:
Frans introduces Value Maritime to C-level contacts by using his international network built up over 20+ years as an International shipping banker and more recently as global head of a shipping bank. He challenges and assists Maarten and Christiaan on strategic topics. He is broadening our international reach and initiating the establishment of our Singapore rep office.
Reach out to Frans for:
Growth Strategy and Corporate Development | Introductions to international shipping companies
Jurriaan Guljé
Title/Area of work
Corporate Development Director
Otherwise known as:
El Jefe
Value to VM:
Jurriaan plays a key role in the company’s growth by focusing on technical, operational, and regulatory aspects. With a background as a Class Surveyor and extensive experience in management roles across the maritime sector, Jurriaan brings a deep understanding of the industry. He is skilled at putting himself in the shoes of the customer and finding practical solutions that align with the company’s core activities. A strong believer in the importance of collaboration, Jurriaan values the social aspect of achieving goals and enjoys working closely with people to drive success.
Reach out to Jurriaan for:
Technical, Operational & Regulatory Insights | Customer-Centric Problem-Solving
Maarten Lodewijks
Title/Area of work
Co-Founder & Director
Otherwise known as:
The Numbers Guy
Value to VM:
Maarten sees that to achieve sustainable shipping you need more than a good idea. The answer needs to also have a financial dividend and ultimately the business solution needs to be profitable too. He brings his shipping knowledge and financial acumen to VM and teaches us all the importance of knowing the numbers.
Reach out to Maarten for:
The Spread | Fuel Prices | Shipping Market
Yvette van der Sommen
Title/Area of work
Global Commerical Director
Otherwise known as:
The Commercial Engineer
Value to VM:
With her technical background and commercial spirit, Yvette has the ability to translate the language of engineering into a common language. She makes sure that our client’s wishes and concerns are heard and finds optimal solutions to make your vessel ready for the future.
Reach out to Yvette for:
A commercial offer | To discuss possibilities | To get to know Value Maritime
Alican Kilnic
Title/Area of work
Operations Director
Otherwise known as:
The Shipbuilder
Value to VM:
Alican ensures that our systems and technology will fit correctly on all types of vessels which of course are subject to various rules and regulations such as flag registration, and classification society.
Reach out to Alican for:
Ship class | Statutory rules & regulations | Engineering & design challenges
Commercial Team
Diederick Blom
Title/Area of work
Client Liaison
Otherwise known as:
C-level Mover & Shaker
Value to VM:
Diederick connects Value Maritime to decision makers in the extensive network that he has built up over the past 41 years in the shipping and logistics world. He also helps potential customers to recognise the benefits of the Value Maritime Filtree and Carbon Capture system.
Reach out to Diederick for:
Commercial & Financial Considerations | References
Semiramis Stampira
Title/Area of work
Commercial Manager – Greece
Otherwise known as:
Ms. Client Relationships
Value to VM:
Semiramis is combining her long-term shipping finance background with her knowledge of the market to achieve sustainable shipping with a financial benefit. She focuses on meeting all of our client’s requirements and at the same time helps to reverse the impact on the environment for the next generation. Her motto is “Together we can change the world. Act now!”.
Reach out to Semiramis for:
Finance Structures | Filtree Benefits | CO2 Capture | Brainstorming
Michela Bassignani
Title/Area of work
Commercial Manager
Otherwise known as:
La Piccola Capitana
Value to VM:
With a background in International Relations, specialising in International Trade and European Integration, Michela started her career in the shipping industry with an NVOCC, focusing on import sea freight and taking on roles in inside sales and customer service. With a strong customer-centric approach, she later joined our commercial team to support shipowners and operators in their decarbonization efforts, blending her passion with a commitment to sustainable maritime solutions.
Reach out to Michela for:
Introduction to the Value Group | Tailored Commercial Offers | Overview of Available Solutions | Communication and Support in Italian
Jang Yong Yoon
Title/Area of work
Commercial Manager, Asia Pacific
Otherwise known as:
The Asia Pacific guy who got lost in Rotterdam…
Value to VM:
After 27 years of navigating ship-owning, ship management, cargo ownership, and classification societies, Jang Yong has finally found his way into the green shipping industry. His extensive experience across Asia and beyond makes him the go-to expert for all commercial matters in the region.
Reach out to Jang Yong for:
Insights on Asia, the Pacific, or anything in between | And if you’re hungry… he’s your guy!
Marketing Team
Joanne Kelleher
Title/Area of work
Communications & Marketing
Otherwise known as:
Star Gazer
Value to VM:
Joanne is taking us to the stars, that’s what she has promised at least! She helps to profile VM and share our stories with the world. Pretty soon sustainable shipping is going to be the norm, and then we are going to need her to take us to the sun, the moon and the stars!
Reach out to Joanne for:
Press updates & comment | Interviews with the team | Bad jokes
Engineering Team
Ramon van ‘t Wout
Title/Area of work
Head of Projects
Otherwise known as:
Mr. Maritime
Value to VM:
Ramon has sailed on commercial vessels as a maritime officer, on top of that he has been working in the exhaust gas cleaning industry worldwide since 2019 executing many projects and gaining knowledge in this market. With this experience, he is determined to make every project a success.
Reach out to Ramon for:
Retrofit projects | Technical matters | A good chat
Arend Bijleveld
Title/Area of work
Integrated Project Engineer
Otherwise known as:
The Coach
Value to VM:
As a Marine Engineer with expertise in CAD, Arend is a key pillar of Value Maritime’s Engineering department. Whether it’s custom vessel integration, product enhancements, or mentoring fellow engineers, no challenge is too great. For innovative solutions to your projects, Arend is the expert to turn to!
Reach out to Arend for:
Structural Engineering | 3D Modelling | Silly jokes
Aykut Bostanli
Title/Area of work
Class Engineer
Otherwise known as:
The Captain
Value to VM:
With a strong background in maritime engineering, transportation, and operations, he brings over a decade of experience in roles ranging from Oceangoing Chief Officer to Class Engineer. His expertise is ensuring regulatory compliance by tackling inspection comments, securing approvals, and managing certifications—all within tight deadlines. He specialises in engineering operations and maintaining top-notch quality standards. His commitment to excellence aligns seamlessly with Value Maritime’s mission for sustainable and efficient solutions.
Reach out to Aykut for:
Regulatory expertise | Engineering operations management | Need a match buddy or football gossip? He’s always up for a good chat about the game!
Koen Sterke
Title/Area of work
Document Controller
Otherwise known as:
Mr. Vertical Monitor
Value to VM:
Koen’s role is a bit of a tricky one to define because he wears two hats. On the one hand, he’s the mastermind behind our AutoCAD designs, crafting detailed plans with precision. On the other hand, he’s the go-to guy for project document control, making sure all the paperwork and issued documents meet contract standards. A true multitasker, Koen keeps everything running smoothly!
Reach out to Koen for:
AutoCAD plans | Reports and documentation | Fun Lunch Talks
Lars de Jong
Title/Area of work
Project Engineer
Otherwise known as:
The Intern
Value to VM:
While earning his degree in Marine Technology at TU Delft, he started his career at Value Group as a Project Engineer, gaining valuable hands-on experience alongside his studies. He is now focused on his graduation project, which investigates the supply chain feasibility of onboard carbon capture technology. This research merges his passion for sustainable innovation with practical applications in the maritime industry.
Reach out to Lars for:
Marine Engineering | Onboard Carbon Capture Supply Chains | Project Engineering | A good chat about sustainable technologies
Rutger Vollenberg
Title/Area of work
Project Manager
Otherwise known as:
The Wise Guy (in a positive way)
Value to VM:
After completing his studies in Maritime Engineering, Rutger joined Value Maritime as a Project Engineer. Initially focused on the integration of the Filtree system, he quickly expanded his expertise to include product development, procurement, and project management. Known for having the best memory in town, Rutger is your go-to person for any details about our work and products—he can provide you with all the information you need.
Reach out to Rutger for:
Tank conversions | System integration | Project management | Fun facts
Tolunay Arslan
Title/Area of work
Service Engineer
Otherwise known as:
Value to VM:
Tolunay is responsible for ensuring that the equipment, systems, and services the company provides operate at peak efficiency. With years of experience in the marine industry as a marine engineer onboard, he conducts regular inspections, tests, calibrations, repairs, and upgrades to maintain the highest standards of performance. Tolunay’s technical expertise ensures that Value Maritime’s solutions remain reliable and effective, supporting the company’s commitment to sustainable shipping and operational excellence.
Reach out to Tolunay for:
Technical Support | Maintenance | Keeping the Scrubber Running (and his American Cocker happy!)
Production & Procurement Crew
Stijn Postema
Title/Area of work
Head of Production & Procurement
Otherwise known as:
Employee #1
Value to VM:
Stijn makes sure all our units are delivered on time. This makes him one of the busiest guys around the office and the warehouse. He is also responsible for professionalising our processes and keeping us all in check!
Reach out to Stijn for:
Procurement | Organising | To chat about MotoGP
Dzintars Rozitis
Title/Area of work
Warehouse Coordinator
Otherwise known as:
The Warehouse Master
Value to VM:
With a wealth of experience and a knack for problem-solving, Dzintars is the undisputed master of the warehouse. As the vigilant guardian of all things storage and logistics, he ensures everything runs like clockwork. From keeping installations efficient and safe to coordinating on-site activities with surgical precision, Dzintars is the glue that holds it all together.
Reach out to Dzintars for:
Anything Warehouse-related | Installation Support | Management Assistance
Lorena Ybanzes
Title/Area of work
Technical Buyer
Otherwise known as:
The Procurement Pro
Value to VM:
Lorena ensures the smooth and cost-effective operation of supplies. With over 6 years of experience in the marine industry and an additional 4 years in electronics, she brings a proven track record in optimizing supply chains. Lorena negotiates with suppliers to secure the best prices and lead times, all while maintaining strong, productive relationships with vendors. Her expertise helps keep Value Maritime’s operations running efficiently and on budget.
Reach out to Lorena for:
Invoice Inquiries and Support | Supplies | Planning a purchase? Lorena can help!
Vjaceslavs Pjatkins
Title/Area of work
Warehouse Support
Otherwise known as:
Warehouse Sidekick
Value to VM:
Slavik is the warehouse wizard who knows exactly where everything is, even if it’s hidden behind a pile of boxes! Whether he’s forklifting, processing orders, or just making sure the shelves are gleaming, he’s always on top of it. He’s the go-to guy for a helping hand, whether it’s for a big project or just moving an empty box. No problem is too big for him—he always finds a way to keep things running smoothly!
Reach out to Slavik for:
Order Processing | Warehouse Organisation | Project Support
Projects & Services Team
Jeroen Gels
Title/Area of work
Head of Development
Otherwise known as:
Ask Jeroen!
Value to VM:
Jeroen is one of the longest with VM. Everyone knows Jeroen is the guy to call when something involving technology needs to be solved or fixed. He will have the answer and he can explain it easily in a way that makes sense. When in doubt, just ask Jeroen!
Reach out to Jeroen for:
Tech improvements | Any issues with service or projects |Technical matters explained simply
Bas Bertens
Title/Area of work
Service Engineer
Otherwise known as:
Hawk Eye
Value to VM:
Bas has years of field experience in inland shipping, making sure the ship stays technically in prime condition, and containers get delivered on schedule. He is used to working under pressure and keeping a keen eye on safety, efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Reach out to Bas for:
Shipping Logistics | Planning | Safety
Maurits Meijssen
Title/Area of work
Lead Engineer
Otherwise known as:
Viking
Value to VM:
He’s been a mechanical engineer for 10 years since graduating from Hogeschool Rotterdam, and in that time, he’s mastered Autodesk Inventor, precision design, and the art of leading engineering teams without losing his sense of humor. Now, as Lead Engineer and Engineering Manager at Value Maritime, he juggles both development and production tasks to make sure projects stay on track (and hopefully without too many coffee spills). He loves tackling problems head-on, learning as he goes, and diving into challenges with a hands-on approach. Passionate about creating innovative and sustainable solutions, he fits right in with Value Maritime’s mission to move the maritime industry forward.
Reach out to Maurits for:
3D modeling | Data Management | Production technologies | Basketball talks | Dad jokes
Stefan Steenwijk
Title/Area of work
Commissioning & Service Engineer
Otherwise known as:
The TroubleShooter
Value to VM:
Stefan brings technical expertise in mechanics, software, electrical engineering, and pneumatics to his role at Value Maritime. As a commissioning and service engineer, he ensures our Filtree system is properly calibrated and fully operational, enabling clients to meet emissions standards with confidence. During commissioning, Stefan coordinates the integration of all components, making sure everything runs smoothly and stays on schedule. Known for his teamwork and dedication, Stefan values working together and making improvements, helping to support cleaner air and a greener future in shipping!
Reach out to Stefan for:
System Component Expertise | Commissioning & Start up | Operational Optimization | Maintenance & Troubleshooting | Technical Insights & Support
Ruben van Sierenberg de Boer
Title/Area of work
Commissioning & Service Engineer
Otherwise known as:
Working Class Instagram Model
Value to VM:
Armed with a rock-solid background in electrical engineering, Ruben is your man for making sure every installation is spot-on. Whether he’s wiring up systems, whipping ship crews into shape, or giving the final inspection his steely-eyed nod of approval, Ruben’s got it covered. Need remote troubleshooting or a steady hand to steer through chaos? Ruben’s the cool head you want when the sparks start flying—figuratively or literally.
Reach out to Ruben for:
System Installation | Remote Support | Automation Engineering
Innovation & Support Team
Eric van der Walle
Title/Area of work
Logistics Manager
Otherwise known as:
Mr. I’ll get it done!
Value to VM:
Having a background in both warehouse and marine logistics (shipping 5.4 billion bananas yearly which is no monkey business), Eric saw a new challenge in integrating the logistics for Value Carbon and Value Maritime. Being a firm believer in the Clean Loop system together with CO2 Capture, he will do all he can to optimise the process of getting all materials from A to B (and C 😉) to boost the decarbonisation of shipping!
Reach out to Eric for:
Logistics | Customs | BBQ recipes
Grégoire Kenesi
Title/Area of work
Finance Manager
Otherwise known as:
The Invoice Duke
Value to VM:
Grégoire oversees financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting to ensure the company’s investments are sound and aligned with strategic goals. With a background in Civil Engineering and project management, he understands the technical and financial demands of large-scale projects. His academic credentials have refined his expertise in managing financial risks and maintaining the company’s financial health, ensuring that Value Maritime’s strategies remain robust and sustainable.
Reach out to Grégoire for:
Financial Oversight | Budgeting | Invoicing
People & Culture Team
Belle Bezemer
Title/Area of work
Head of People & Culture
Otherwise known as:
People Peruser
Value to VM:
Belle serves as a vital bridge between the company’s leadership and its employees, and acts as a gatekeeper to the company culture in the selection of new team members. With a background in illustration, art, and design, she brings a creative, inclusive and human-centered approach to her role. Belle’s people skills make her an approachable and supportive presence for the team, ensuring open communication and fostering a positive, collaborative workplace. She is dedicated to creating an environment where employees feel valued and empowered, while also aligning their growth with the company’s mission and values. Always available to listen and offer guidance, Belle plays a key role in shaping the future of the team at Value Maritime.
Reach out to Belle for:
Reach out to her for: Support | Creative Problem Solving | Coffee Break Conversations
Luz del Rio
Title/Area of work
Office Manager
Otherwise known as:
The Office Radar (On Call for All)
Value to VM:
With a background in teaching and over five years of experience working with diverse age groups, Luz brings exceptional communication and problem-solving skills to the table. Her shift into hospitality and administrative roles showcases her adaptability, efficiency, and proactive mindset. Known for her organisational skills and attention to detail, Luz ensures smooth operations and is always ready to tackle new challenges with a smile.
Reach out to Luz for:
Administrative support | Office organisation | Helping things run without a hitch
