Charting a Career in Bunker Trading: In Orestis Words

Our trader, Orestis Diamantidis, shares his journey into the world of bunker trading, what his daily work looks like, and what continues to motivate him in this fast-paced industry.

I’ve had a natural interest in sales ever since I was a kid, and over time, I developed a love for shipping, largely thanks to my older cousin, who has been in the industry for many years.
I began my career trading lubricants, but I kept hearing about the fast-paced nature of bunker trading. It sounded far more dynamic and challenging, and that excitement drew me into the bunker trading industry.
What I enjoy most about bunker trading, is that there is no typical day. Each day brings new challenges, and every week or month comes with its own highs and lows. That constant change is what keeps the job exciting.

To stay sharp in such a fast-moving market, I make it a point to read all the leading and trusted shipping news websites daily. Baseblue also supports our growth through regular seminars and training sessions. Personally, though, I prefer the ‘old-school’ approach, gathering insights directly from people. I stay close to my clients, who are active in various shipping segments, and I maintain a personal interest in the broader shipping industry beyond just bunkers. In today’s environment, I believe it’s crucial to stay informed about freight, regulations, and market developments to truly succeed.

One moment that stands out in my time at Baseblue was being assigned, within my first six months, to a dedicated team supporting one of the world’s largest shipping companies. Bunker traders are often seen as working independently, but that experience taught me the value of being part of a strong, collaborative team. It was both a proud and formative experience.

What makes Baseblue unique is the culture we’ve built. We’re a truly multinational team, with colleagues from Germany, India, Brazil, Greece, and beyond. Despite our diverse backgrounds, we’ve created an environment where communication flows naturally and everyone feels connected.

The way we work is constantly evolving, but I’m convinced that our profession will always rely on strong personal relationships. If you can build meaningful connections and earn the trust of your clients, success will follow.