Navigating complexity with confidence

A Global role with local impact

As Project Manager at Damen Technical Cooperation (DTC), Johan Mannak thrives in a role that demands versatility, precision, and people skills. DTC enables clients to build Damen vessels locally, under Damen’s supervision, helping countries strengthen their own shipbuilding capabilities while maintaining Damen’s high standards.

Johan’s job is all about “interface management.” He coordinates between departments, countries, suppliers, and clients, ensuring that technical activities are executed correctly, budgets are respected, and timelines are met. “What I do is very diverse, and that’s exactly what makes this job so enjoyable,” Johan shares.

Keeping an overview

Currently, Johan is leading 2 international project teams across three shipyards, working on 5 vessel builds. One of the highlights is the development of a new type of dredging vessel, designed to support offshore operations and remove sediment from the seabed. This new standard model is being built in two ways: one as a material package for a yard in India, and the other as a fully constructed vessel at a partner yard in Vietnam. The project involves collaboration across multiple Damen locations: general design from the Product Group in The Netherlands, basic engineering in Gdansk, and detailed engineering in Ukraine. Johan’s role is to keep everything aligned, both technically and logistically.

No two days are the same

Johan’s schedule is packed. A recent week included meetings with engineering teams, a film crew, a keel-laying ceremony, and technical discussions with clients, all in Vietnam. “No two days are the same,” he says. “It’s all about consistently setting priorities and working efficiently.”

He receives around 100 emails daily and spends 10 to 20 hours a week in meetings. From sourcing systems like the dredge control system to managing engineering changes, Johan balances strategic oversight with hands-on decision-making.

People make the project

Beyond the technical complexity, Johan emphasizes the human side of project management. “Everyone understands the importance of keeping the client informed and satisfied. They’re the ones paying the bill.” When challenges arise, it’s about sitting down together and finding solutions.

Some tasks, like long-term risk analysis, only get his attention during flights between shipyards. Despite the pressure, Johan finds energy in his work. “Delivered on time and within budget, ideally with a happy client. You feel it during sea trials, when everything clicks into place.”