Scorpio News
Captain Pawan Kumar: Navigating Success

Captain Pawan Kumar has been with Scorpio for a decade, joining Scorpio Marine Management in 2014 as a Marine Superintendent, where he was responsible for supporting vessels in marine, safety, and cargo operations. His leadership skills quickly earned recognition, and in 2016, he was promoted to Manager of Fleet Support & Vetting, handling safety and vetting concerns for the entire fleet. By 2019, he had advanced to Fleet Manager, overseeing technical, marine, and operational aspects of vessels under his charge. In 2024, his journey came full circle, being appointed to General Manager of the crewing team in Mumbai (see below). This success, according to him, is thanks to his work ethic and sense of discipline – traits he learned at an early age as the son of an Army man.
While his family is from Northern India, Captain Pawan Kumar was born in Pune, Maharashtra, where his father was stationed in the Indian army. Pawan and his siblings all shared their father’s passion for the armed forces, and as a young man, Pawan planned to follow in his father’s footsteps. However, after completing military school in Rajasthan, he wasn’t able to join the “first line of defense.” The next best option was the Merchant Navy – a decision that set him on a course for a remarkable career at sea and beyond.
In his current role, Capt. Kumar oversees crewing strategies, collaborating with leadership and key stakeholders to ensure seamless operations. His focus is on aligning team efforts with broader organizational goals while ensuring growth and continued excellence. Despite achieving the rank of Master at sea and now managing the crewing department ashore, he still approaches his role as a new learner, saying: “My thirst for knowledge remains strong as I prepare to embark on a new learning journey.”
His dedication to personal growth is evident through his continued pursuit of knowledge. Beyond mandatory STCW courses, he participates in leadership workshops organized by Scorpio, further enhancing his managerial acumen.
What he likes most about his job
One of the most fulfilling aspects of his role is working with seafarers and young professionals. “I truly enjoy connecting with seafarers and working alongside young, dynamic team members. The energy and fresh ideas they bring to the table are truly inspiring.” Capt. Kumar firmly believes that by actively listening and guiding them in the right direction, extraordinary outcomes can be achieved. “When their thoughts and enthusiasm are properly channeled, the results can be remarkable.”
Throughout his career, Capt. Kumar has experienced numerous proud moments, including in 2019 when he was entrusted with leading the same team where he began his journey at Scorpio, a testament to his growth and leadership within the company. But his most memorable moment was the day he was promoted to Master — on September 4, 2010 (see left). The announcement was made while he and the vessel’s Master were on a call with the office. Adding to the significance, his wife was sailing with him for the first time and to this day, she proudly claims to have been his lucky charm.
A Love for the Open Road
Outside of work, Capt. Pawan Kumar enjoys road trips, particularly long drives from Mumbai to his hometown. This passion took root during the COVID-19 pandemic when he, like many others, had to travel home to support his parents. His ideal vacation destinations feature lakes and hills, where he finds the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.
Capt. Pawan Kumar’s journey is one of resilience, adaptability, and leadership. His story serves as an inspiration to seafarers and professionals alike, proving that with the right mindset and dedication, success is always within reach.
This article featured in Beacon 27, Scorpio seafarers can access and download all issues of the Beacon from DocMap while onboard.