“We have your back through thick and thin”

The path into marine underwriting varies from one person to the next. Fred Hansson, regardless of his origin from southern Lapland in Sweden was persuaded to go to sea more than 30 years ago. After studying marine engineering in Kalmar, he sailed for a decade as a Chief engineer in the Swedish merchant fleet. His career expanded into shipbuilding, technical management, working as Swedish Flag- and Port State Control officer, and work at the Swedish Accident Investigation Authority. Throughout the years he also got to know Alandias claims service.

“I really appreciated their way of working for the customer. So, when there was an open position in the Swedish claims team, I applied and got the honour of signing on. That was back in 2016, and I’m still onboard enjoying my work as much as ever”

By being born on Åland, Benjamin Byman has shipping in his veins. His background as a marine engineer in the Swedish and Finnish merchant fleets, along with experience as an International naval architecture and marine engineering consultant, led him to join Alandia in 2018 through the Claims Service Team. He sees hands-on shipping experience as a major asset:

“It helps you to understand the situations shipowners and their crews may encounter,” he says.

Senior Underwriter and Team Leader Jan Nelson, like Fred, grew up in northern Sweden. With well over 30 years in the marine insurance industry, Jan joined Alandia in 2008 and is a well known person in the industry, both by customers and colleagues..

“The personal approach has defined my work throughout the years, and that’s the most important quality I can pass on to my younger colleagues: always pick up the phone and speak directly with the customer. This is the foundation of strong, long-term, and meaningful relationships,” he says.

Personal connections in a digital world

Working in the field of marine insurance is all about the people and their businesses. Janne Nelson deeply admires his customers, whether big or small.

“I’ve always been fascinated with entrepreneurship and the drive to succeed. Our customers navigate anything and everything, from day-to-day operations to regulatory requirements and market unpredictability, yet continue to thrive. This resilience and spirit are worthy of both recognition and respect.”

Alandia itself also originates from a highly entrepreneurial background. Founded in 1938 as a mutual insurance company by a group of ambitious shipowners, the company has played a vital role in the Åland community. While Alandia is a large company in Åland, it is comparatively small in the sector of marine insurance. But that actually benefits the customer, says Benjamin Byman:

“We may be smaller than some competitors, but that makes us more agile and flexible. At any moment, we might face complex cases requiring an immediate response and decision-making. We are strongly supported by each other, and we also work seamlessly with Alandia’s claims team.”

And while Alandia prioritises personal relationships, Alandia also understands the importance of evolving.

“Technology improves efficiency, but ultimately, I see it as means for us to focus even more on serving our customers,” says Benjamin.

Teamwork and succession

An integral element in Alandia’s success in the Swedish market is the close teamwork among the underwriting team. Over time, the underwriting team has established close relationships with customers while constantly learning and growing stronger together. Janne Nelson is completely comfortable gradually handing over responsibility to Benjamin and Fred.

“They both have the right attitude and skill set. They are analytical, customer-focused, and they each bring technical expertise and valuable experience from the maritime industry,” Janne says.

“There are some things about this job you can learn quickly, and others that will take some time to establish. The knowledge and skills exchange between us goes on every day,” says Benjamin.

“Janne is well-connected and respected in the industry, giving us great support as we continue building our customer network,” says Fred.

But succession is not just about transferring knowledge—it’s also about passing on the Alandia mindset and corporate code of practice.

“We will uphold the way of operating that defines Alandia—being personal, approachable, flexible, and available. We are here through thick and thin, whether digitally at a distance or in person at the premises, we ensure our customers receive the support they need, whenever they need it,” says Benjamin.

“At the end of the day, our job is about showing up when it matters most,” Fred concludes.

_{Text: April Kommunikation/Anna Karlsson
Photo: Dingle/Mari Lahti}