At Exmar, the Chief Officer maximum salary increased to USD 12,200 from January 1, 2026, up from USD 11,600. Captains and Chief Engineers received a USD 400 increase, while Chief Officers and Second Engineers received USD 600. There are no bonuses or additional benefits. Marine Benefits insurance is provided at the place of residence. Belgian pool membership depends on budget availability. New Chief Officers joining the Belgian pool are offered EUR 8,800 plus allowances for a non-working spouse and minor children, totaling about EUR 9,700; this is EUR 1,700–2,000 less than existing pool members receive. Contracts are not permanent and are typically 3 months on/3 months off, with a possible two-week variation. Promotions are difficult: some employees wait 5–6 contracts after assessment, while external hires are made instead. Promotion requires positive recommendations from three different captains, three CES tests, and an office assessment. Many employees left in 2025, and more are planning to leave. Supply is poor. The company has sold and is selling many vessels and is taking delivery of Chinese newbuildings. The Belgium office provides no support during vetting preparation. Belgian cadets are actively promoted to Third Officer positions, including cadets with no knowledge. Many vessels have predominantly Indian crews, sometimes with only one or two Ukrainian crew members. Crew management is based in India and the head office is in Antwerp. Senior personnel are leaving the company. There are no gas engineers; cargo maintenance is performed by the Chief Officer, while critical cargo maintenance is handled by the Chief Engineer and Chief Officer. On most vessels, the Chief Officer works day shifts and does not stand navigation watch.