Denmark’s success in global shipping is closely linked with its ability to tap a rich talent pool, leading executives believe.

“In our sector we love the ships, we love the steel, but actually, the software between the ears of the people is actually what is driving the industry,” says Anne Steffensen, chief executive of Danish Shipping.

We put a lot of effort into making sure people who join the industry have the opportunity to become smarter as they move along

Anne Steffensen

Historically AP Moller-Maersk has been the training ground for the industry’s best and brightest, who joined directly from school.