Wharfinger

Wharfinger is the title of the keeper or owner of a wharf or similar structure who is responsible for all day to day activities pertaining to it. These involve both shipping management, inventory, maintenance, and mediation of disputes among other things. While this profession in and of itself is a position of authority and prestige it is not uncommon for a particularly well respected or shrewd wharfinger to expand to owning multiple wharfs and in some cases entire harbors. The management and interpersonal skills required to operate a highly profitable wharf let alone more than one are equally useful in other areas of government. It is not uncommon for wharfingers particularly those with trusted understudies to hold other public offices like, city commissioner, school master, or mayor. In some cases they may be selected by a company or noble to oversee their docks or shipping arrangements. Particularly daring or diligent individuals can use connections made in this position to gain a seat on the board of a company or become a significant share holder. Those hired by nobility can easily become trusted advisors, gain noble titles, or become responsible for teaching noble children skills ranging from basic math and tide charts to advanced accounting and nautical skills.

While on its own the position of wharfinger may seem a minor position of authority in the grand scheme of things, it provides something other positions may not. It provides constant interaction with others, particularly others who move or oversee the movement of materials for a living. For example ship captains are notoriously creatures of habit and should one find your wharf to be particularly inviting, pleasant, or fair they will more often than not return when time and again even if it would be more convenient to stop somewhere else. Another thing captains are want to do is share a drink with a friend and tell stories about what they've seen and what they've done. A good listener is a good friend and you can learn a lot about where to invest if you listen to the right people.

Type

Administration / Management