A talent compass
It’s been a hectic couple of weeks since LISW ‘23 and we’ve only just had a chance to compare notes from the several, different events stonefort marine talent attended. Here are a few thoughts.
Firstly, thank you to the organising team for pulling together so much and for arranging such wonderful late UK summer weather! Thank you also to all the other hosts, sponsors, and enthusiastic attendees. Great to catch up with friends and colleagues old and new - too many to mention!
Under a headline theme of "reframing risk in a complex market" we discussed - among a huge range of topics - compliance, decarbonisation, business and technological innovation, security and human skills.
From a personal perspective I came away stronger than ever in the belief that stonefort marine is well - positioned (perhaps even uniquely) to support clients in several of the challenges we face in the years ahead.
In our evolving maritime industry, staying competitive requires a multi-faceted approach. Below I'll touch upon 1) how stonefort marine is staying current with technological advancements, and 2) how this supports recruiting quality people/building the next generation of maritime talent.
1. Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice:
Marine experts such as those in stonefort marine consultancy/ stonefort marine talent bring real-world, hands-on and current experience to the table. Our practical knowledge helps bridge the gap between theoretical training and the practical skills required for a successful maritime career.
2. Industry-Driven Curriculum:
stonefort marine is acutely aware of the industry’s changing demands. We can actively contribute to the development of training programs and curricula that are not only up-to-date but also relevant to the current needs of the maritime sector. This ensures that talent development efforts are aligned with industry trends.
3. Coaching, Mentorship, Guidance:
The experienced team within stonefort marine talent can serve as mentors and coaches to maritime professionals at all levels. Our insights can help individuals navigate the complexities of the industry, from sea-to-shore to industry board level and most roles and levels in-between!
4. Adapting to Technological Advances:
Technology is rapidly transforming the maritime industry. stonefort marine consultancy works with leading software, engineering solutions providers and we have led a number of digitalisation reviews. We bring this knowledge into talent development conversations to ensure internal growth is aligned with the changing technological & digital needs of our clients.
5. Safety and Compliance:
Compliance with safety regulations is paramount in the maritime industry. With our marine risk, military logistics, vetting, OCIMF, SIGTTO backgrounds, we can instil a strong safety culture in talent development programs, emphasising the importance of adhering to safety standards and best practices.
6. Industry Recognition and Credibility:
Talent development programs in which credible marine technical consultants support the client line / talent development teams. Having professionals who have themselves performed the role/hired for/led teams of, leading client talent searches in recruitment.
7. Mitigation of Risk:
Mistakes in hiring, failing to retain or develop people in the maritime sector can have far-reaching consequences, including safety issues and financial losses. Promotion of singleton and diverse populations is inevitably associated with a degree of risk but this should not prevent such decisions being made. stonefort marine has extensive experience with 'swiss-cheesing' organisations so that such moves are managed to reduce the risk of hiring / promotion mistakes.
8. Continual Improvement:
By actively participating in talent development efforts, marine professionals contribute to the continual improvement of the industry. We help ensure that the next generation of maritime professionals is not just knowledgeable but also committed to raising industry standards.
Final thoughts?
I’m not going to pretend we have all the answers. I’m not sure anyone does. However, in stonefort we’re intensely practical, have significant experience and are able to apply this knowledge to people decisions in a way, perhaps, that some other ‘recruiters’ cannot. The talent work (both finding & building) we have done and are doing, will benefit our clients, emerging professionals, and ultimately the maritime industry.
The shorthand version? We can act as a compass, pointing the way and working with clients to build robust, resilient & ready talent for the challenges to come. If you’d like to know more, please contact mark.fortnum@stonefortmarine-talent.com