People
The foundation of Hagland lies within our people. Their contributions have been instrumental in shaping Hagland’s success thus far and will continue to drive our future growth. We remain committed to leveraging our expertise and accumulated knowledge moving forward.
What do you enjoy most about working at Hagland? I enjoy the variety in my daily work — no two days are ever the same. There's always something new happening, providing me with plenty of opportunities to learn and grow.
How would you describe the team atmosphere? The work environment is incredibly supportive and inclusive. Colleagues are always willing to share knowledge, and there's an open atmosphere where asking questions is encouraged, helping everyone grow and succeed together.
What’s something about Hagland that most people might not know? Something few people know about Hagland is that every iPhone contains a small amount of silicon. The supplier of this silicon uses wood chips in its production — materials that Hagland transports. In a small but meaningful way, Hagland contributes to every iPhone.
Get to know Sara
What is your role at Hagland? I work as a Chartering & Operations Assistant at Hagland Shipping, where I coordinate the daily operations of our vessels, ensuring everything runs as efficiently and smoothly as possible.
How long have you been working here and what did you do prior to starting? I joined Hagland in August 2023 after completing a Master's degree in Shipping Management in Athens and a Bachelor's degree in Maritime Studies and Logistics in Horten. This academic foundation has been invaluable in helping me transition smoothly into the professional world.
How long have you been working here and what did you do prior to starting? Before joining Hagland as a shipbroker in 2018, I worked as a deck officer on anchor handling vessels and offshore construction vessels, primarily in Northern Europe, with additional experience in West Africa and North America. Alongside my maritime background and education, I pursued further studies with the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers, completing the Professional Qualifying Examinations program. Additionally, I have served as a lecturer in navigation and ship handling at the Western Norway University of Applied Science in Haugesund.
What do you enjoy most about working at Hagland? I find the role of a shipbroker both fascinating and dynamic, offering a great deal of flexibility. While much of our work takes place in the office, we also spend a significant amount of time traveling—visiting clients and vessel owners, attending trade fairs, and participating in industry expos. This variety ensures that no two days are ever the same. Additionally, I value the company’s strong heritage and esteemed reputation in the market, which we take great pride in being part of.
How would you describe the team atmosphere? Hagland Shipbrokers has offices in Aberdeen, Esbjerg, and Hamburg, along with our main location in Haugesund. Our team here is highly integrated, and we truly enjoy working together. A key aspect of our operations is the close collaboration with colleagues across all offices—we connect almost daily on Teams and regularly meet in person at events and client meetings. The strong team spirit and collective effort set Hagland Shipbrokers apart and remain one of our greatest strengths.
What’s something about Hagland that most people might not know? Hagland supplies stone to Lynetteholmen, a planned artificial island in Copenhagen, Denmark. Designed to accommodate around 35,000 residents and generate an equal number of workplaces, the project aims to tackle key urban challenges, including housing shortages, traffic congestion, and climate protection against rising sea levels.
Say hello to Eirik
What is your role at Hagland? I work at Hagland Shipbrokers, where I’m part of the offshore team based at our main office in Haugesund. Our team specializes in chartering and sale & purchase, offering market intelligence, strategic advisory, and contractual expertise to clients in the offshore oil & gas and renewable energy sectors. It’s a dynamic and fast-paced role, as we collaborate with clients and manage operations across multiple regions, including the North Sea, Mediterranean, West Africa, Taiwan, and the Gulf of Mexico. To meet our clients’ diverse demands, we cover a broad spectrum of vessel types, such as tug & barge, platform supply, anchor handling, subsea construction, cable installation, heavy transport, walk-to-work, and wind turbine installation vessels. This variety makes each day engaging and rewarding.
My professional background before joining Hagland is quite diverse. After high school, I pursued a bachelor's degree in engineering while working in various roles, including at a flower shop and as a lifeguard. Following my studies, I wanted to travel before settling back in Haugalandet, where I took a position in the technical department of a hospital. Over time, I developed an interest in economics, which ultimately led me to my current role at Hagland— a place where I now truly feel at home.
What do you enjoy most about working at Hagland? I genuinely enjoy my work, as it offers both variety and opportunities for professional growth. However, what truly matters to me is the strong social environment. At Hagland, I get to work alongside colleagues who have been with the company for over 20 years, while also welcoming new team members as the company continues to grow. I always look forward to going to work and seeing my colleagues, and I've been fortunate to form friendships that extend beyond the workplace.
How would you describe the team atmosphere? The sense of unity at Hagland is truly remarkable. Collaboration within and across departments is exceptionally strong, which I believe stems from the company’s deep-rooted history, built over 150 years. The management prioritizes creating a positive work environment, organizing various social events throughout the year to foster connection. I am convinced that a workplace where people feel comfortable and valued leads to outstanding results. At Hagland, everyone contributes to each other's success and works together toward shared goals.
What’s something about Hagland that most people might not know? When I talk to friends and family about my workplace, many are surprised by the diverse industries Hagland operates in. Within the maritime sector, the company engages in shipping, ship brokerage, and agency services. Beyond maritime activities, Hagland has strong expertise in finance through Hagland Finans and in property development. Operating across multiple segments allows us to maintain a well-balanced workforce in terms of expertise, gender, and age, contributing to a uniquely dynamic and inclusive work environment.
Meet Signe Lise
What is your role at Hagland? I am a state-authorized accountant and one of three who work internally with accounting and payroll in the Hagland group. My daily work is primarily related to Hagland's shipping operations.
How long have you been working here and what did you do prior to starting? I started at Hagland 5 years ago in a part-time job alongside my studies. In 2022, I completed my bachelor's degree in Business Administration and transitioned into a full-time position at Hagland as an accountant.
What do you enjoy most about working at Hagland? I appreciate the variety in my workdays and the efficiency of decision-making processes. Additionally, there is a great work environment and strong collaboration across departments.
How would you describe the team atmosphere? Professional, yet with a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere that fosters collaboration, open communication, and a positive work environment.
What’s something about Hagland that most people might not know? I don’t think most people are fully aware of all the different divisions within Hagland. One notable example is Hagland Eiendom, which owns properties across the entire Haugaland region.
Introducing Kjell Arne Sætre
What is your role at Hagland? I work as an Operations Manager at Hagland Agency, which offers ship agency services throughout the Haugaland region, including the Kårstø terminal and Hydro Karmøy.
How long have you been working here and what did you do prior to starting? I have been with Hagland Agency for 20 years, initially working as a ship agent before transitioning to the role of Operations Manager in 2012. Prior to joining the company as a ship agent in 2005, I worked as a diving technician and spent some time as an engineer on supply ships. In the three years leading up to my role at Hagland, I pursued further education in IT and accounting.