Nicolas De Groof

Experienced logistics and maritime professional with over 10 years of experience in barge planning, maritime operations, logistics, surveying and customer account management. Strong background in coordinating vessels, terminals, captains, customers and port stakeholders, with proven ability to manage time-sensitive operations and resolve issues efficiently. Experienced in documentation, customs procedures, cargo checks, planning and operational administration.

Strong communicator with a practical, hands-on approach and experience working independently in high-pressure environments.

Marine Operations Planner at MAC-2 Maritime (2024-08 – 2026-07)

• Coordinate the daily operations of barges and captains, ensuring efficient execution of planned activities.
• Act as a key point of contact between captains, chief officers, vessel agents, terminals and other operational stakeholders.
• Prepare and distribute daily operational planning and communicate changes by telephone and digital channels.
• Manage a 24/7 on-call duty week once per month, responding to operational issues and changes.
• Verify storage compatibility requirements for oils and chemicals before operations are undertaken.
• Coordinate with customs and verify relevant documentation and compliance requirements.
• Prepare and format packing lists and other operational documentation using Excel.
• Conduct physical safety checks on barges.
• Work closely with the Port of Antwerp and Belgian government authorities on operational matters.
• Monitor operations and respond quickly to unexpected changes to minimize disruption.

Maritime Surveyor at DP Survey (2023-10 – 2024-06)

• Conducted marine surveys of steel and bulk cargoes.
• Verified vessel arrival times, locations and readiness for inspection.
• Performed physical inspections of vessels and cargo, including entering cargo holds and photographing goods.
• Conducted cargo tests and inspections to support accurate assessment and reporting.
• Verified and signed Bills of Lading in coordination with vessel captains.
• Maintained communication with customers, receiving parties and counterpart surveyors.
• Prepared comprehensive survey files containing inspection findings, test results and photographic evidence.
• Ensured accurate and timely reporting to customers and relevant stakeholders.

Account Manager/Sales & Rental Representative at CBOX Containers (2021-10 – 2023-09)

• Served as the primary point of contact between customers and the company.
• Developed and maintained long-term customer relationships while actively identifying new business opportunities.
• Prepared quotations, sales proposals and contracts.
• Monitored market developments and identified opportunities to support business growth.
• Built and maintained a professional network of existing and potential customers.
• Developed strong knowledge of the company's products and services and advised customers on appropriate solutions.
• Followed up on customer requirements and ensured effective communication throughout the sales process.

Barge Planner/Coordinator at South Nation (2015-07 – 2021-10)

Container & General Cargo Department

• Independently planned and coordinated the complete operational schedule for container and general cargo barges.
• Coordinated closely with terminal managers, barge companies, customers, dockers and internal dispatch teams.
• Communicated operational schedules and changes to customers and barge operators.
• Arranged the required personnel and equipment based on expected cargo volumes.
• Monitored operations and continuously optimised planning to ensure efficient use of resources.
• Followed up on quay operations and adjusted planning when operational circumstances changed.
• Maintained direct communication with dockers regarding loading and unloading activities.
• Managed the administrative processing of manifests for container and general cargo operations.

Counter Clerk / Administrative Assistant – Container Department at South Nation (2015-07 – 2021-10)

• Served drivers and handled operational transactions at the counter.
• Entered and maintained data in internal systems.
• Managed telephone communication with customers and drivers regarding operational issues.
• Monitored inbound and outbound stock movements.
• Prepared reports and followed up on various transport and cargo flows.
• Managed documentation and files relating to truck loading and unloading.
• Prepared loading and unloading orders, CMRs and other transport documentation.
• Prepared work orders and supporting documentation for invoicing.

Logistics Clerk at Federal Mogul (2011-02 – 2015-07)

• Processed and registered incoming goods.
• Organised and stored received goods in accordance with warehouse procedures.
• Prepared and processed outgoing orders.
• Performed order picking and supported the efficient flow of goods through the warehouse.

Diploma in Logistics & Supply Chain – Logos (2016 – 2017)

Certification in Logistics Clerk – Syntra Mechelen (2014 – 2015)

Certification in Dispatcher – Syntra Mechelen (2013 – 2014)

Bachelor Studies in Physical Education & PAV – Charlemagne University College (2008 – 2011)

Technical Secondary Education in Accounting & Computer Science – Saint Joseph Institute (2005 – 2008)

Secondary education in Academic track - specializing in economics – Saint Rita institute (2001 – 2005)