Leandro Anipa - PgDip International Shipping and Logistics graduate

“I would definitely recommend undertaking a course at Plymouth University because it is a visionary institution that has proved its worth by continuing to progress from its early days as a Polytechnic, to become what it is now: a tremendous higher education institution.”

Tell us about your career path since graduation.

I have worked for Bollore Ghana from 1996 to 2011 in the shipping agency as a quality manager (including ISO 9000 certification), a software project implementation coordinator, and as a process and compliance change champion. I have also worked in the logistics division as a West Africa gas pipeline logistics project HSE associate, and in the off dock terminal as an information services manager (billing/tracking/statistics).

Then, from 2011 until the present, I have been working for Bollore Sierra Leone in numerous posts. I have worked as a terminal operations analyst, processing designs and implementing newly started terminal concessions, which includes invoicing vessel and yard operations, billing and associated revenue controls such as delivery documentation and gate ops, staff coaching and mentoring.

Now, in the AP Moller Terminals/Bollore Ports and Terminals division I am invoicing software implementation change, monitoring and evaluating customer service process performance, and subject matter expert/advisor.

What is the most difficult thing which you have faced in your career?

The most difficult thing I have faced was being able to cope with the learning curve associated with the process of moving from shipping agency to the off dock container terminal. I had an extremely competent, but bad tempered, boss.

What is the best, most exciting or fun thing that you have done in your career?

Teaching logistics software use to novices and seeing them get it right is really rewarding.

How did studying at Plymouth help you?

I was enrolled on the international version of my programme, which meant that I stayed three months in Plymouth and nine months in St Nazaire, France; but I had a couple of good French friends who helped me throughout the course. Being able to complete an internship in France was also really beneficial. The course itself was of a really high quality and the teaching was fantastic. There is also an excellent library on campus which is open 24 hours a day, every day.

Would you recommend undertaking a course with Plymouth University, and why?

Yes, I would definitely recommend undertaking a course at Plymouth University because it is a visionary institution that has proved its worth by continuing to progress from its early days as a Polytechnic, to become what it is now: a tremendous higher education institution.

Is there anything else which you would like to share with our current students?

Don’t leave Africa out of your plans: we need your collaboration, not your aid.