Could you share a bit about yourself and how long you have been with AmSpec?
I joined Amspec in August 2023 after returning from working in the UAE. Having joined the industry in 2010, I learned the basics of petroleum surveying and, within two years, gained the experience to advance to Senior Surveyor. I worked for several inspection companies in Singapore and received offers of better opportunities. Eventually, I secured the role of Marine Cargo Superintendent. I then travelled frequently and worked around Asia, handling shipments and practicing cargo quantity & quality investigations and loss control for a wide range of clients. I applied my experience in countries including China, Korea, Japan, Indonesia, and others.
Just before the pandemic, I was offered a permanent role in the UAE as a Superintendent. In 2023, I stepped back from the role, returned to Singapore, and finally joined AmSpec.
Can you walk us through a typical day or week in your role as an Operations Executive?
Holding the operations role keeps me in a constant routine, ensuring all field operations comply with the relevant SOPs. At times, I work around the clock as our industry doesn’t sleep. We manage the field staff, help them troubleshoot, and ensure safe and accurate results. At the same time, we keep our client pool regularly updated on their operations, which occur at any time of day. We are well-equipped to manage multiple operations simultaneously, at any time of day or week.
In your opinion, what sets AmSpec apart from other companies in the TIC (Testing, Inspection, and Certification) industry?
AmSpec stands out with its nearly 40 years of expertise in the Energy industry and global reach. AmSpec maintains high standards of testing, with state-of-the-art laboratories and highly trained staff to deliver precise, accurate results. Our company is also actively involved in environmental testing, emissions monitoring, and waste management solutions. The growing focus on biofuels, hydrogen, and sustainable aviation fuel is facilitating our integration into global supply chains.
Reflecting on your career path, which skills have been the most critical to your success in this role?
Through many years of work on tankers, storage terminals, and refineries, I gained experience that helped me transition smoothly into operations. The regular work of loading, discharging, blending fuel components, pipeline verifications, and internal cargo transfers greatly helped deliver the best service to our clients, giving me the upper hand to manage high-priority operations more effectively.
Can you describe your team in Singapore?
Having joined the Heavy Distillates Team in 2023, I’m proud of how well we have progressed and built out over the past two years. Initially a small group, now a larger force, each individual bringing extensive expertise. I’ve always been grateful for the seniors I have worked with, who helped shape and mentor me to perform much better in the TIC industry. Our team never fails to stay bonded and united through various circumstances. To highlight, the most significant and rewarding experience I gained from the team, especially the seniors, was in cargo quality and lab testing procedures.
Tell us about your office. What makes this branch unique?
Singapore is a global hub for maritime, fuel, and petrochemicals. Having a fully equipped lab and inspection base here enables AmSpec to serve multiple ships/terminals, not just in Singapore but also in nearby Malaysia (South Johor), among others. This proximity to major terminals and fuel cargo flows gives speed and responsiveness. We not only conduct local inspections and operations but also serve as the regional headquarters for APAC.
The Singapore office recently underwent a lab expansion, demonstrating investment and commitment to scale. The newer facilities and expanded workspace increase capacity and may improve turnaround time. The lab tests not only traditional fuels and crude but also renewable products, including renewable diesel, SAF (sustainable aviation fuel), and HVO. This indicates readiness for evolving fuel and energy markets.
A shoutout and huge credit go to the upper Management here, led by Mr. Oliver Worth, and, moving down the operations chain, they have created not just a professional team of employees but an AmSpec family.