Being in recruitment, it is important to hear what candidates have to say about their experience and how they are getting on. One of our most senior recruiters, David Tubb, who has been here for over 13 years, recently heard from two previously placed candidates at Navigate PR to hear about their experience, how they found the process and how their current role is going. We thought it was about time we showed off candidates in the industry and the glowing work of our recruiters.
Margaret Mentz
PR Account Manager, Navigate PR
Working within the Marketing, Communications & PR sector.
What do you do in your current role?
Navigate PR is a public relations agency that caters to the maritime and related industries. I joined in November 2022 as an Account Executive and was recently promoted to Account Manager.
As a communication strategist, I am responsible for crafting editorial content for trade magazines, creating social media posts, and formulating and executing communication strategies for our clients, to name a few. Each day is unique, as I work with a diverse range of clients, including insurance companies, salvage operators, search and rescue organisations, and others.
How did you get your role?
David from Spinnaker reached out to me about the Account Executive position at Navigate. He was extremely helpful and provided valuable information about the role requirements. Initially, I was unsure if I was the right fit as I lacked experience in the maritime industry. However, David explained the job responsibilities and it piqued my interest. I decided to apply and, as they say, the rest is history.
Is this your first role within the maritime industry? If so, what attracted you to the sector?
This is my first job in the maritime industry. I have always been passionate about communication in all its forms, and the sheer size of the maritime industry attracted me to it. There are so many different aspects of the industry that I knew it would be a challenge to familiarise myself with and try to become an expert in various areas. I don’t think I will ever know everything about the shipping industry, but it is fascinating how everything in our lives is linked to the industry.
What do you love about the maritime industry?
I love the dedication of people in the industry—whether it is decarbonisation, the welfare of seafarers, or new regulations introduced—it shows that the industry has a lot of passionate people. And my work depends on people who can appeal to different interests and passions. I enjoy meeting clients and find each organisation and company I work with fascinating and interesting.
Did you relocate for your role?
I had various other roles before working in maritime; I relocated to the UK from South Africa 10 years ago.
What is one piece of advice or a fun fact you would tell someone about the maritime industry?
Oh boy, there are so many! But a fun fact is that the shipping industry plays a crucial role in transporting approximately 90% of the world’s trade. This highlights not only the global economy’s dependence on maritime transport but also the industry’s proficiency and ability to move vast quantities of goods across the world’s oceans. Most of the products we use in our daily lives, such as clothing, food, and technology, have likely been transported by ships, making the maritime industry an unsung hero of our globalised world.
I would recommend Spinnaker to anyone wanting to make a career or industry move! My overall experience was fantastic. I really appreciate David’s knowledge of the industry and the job offer; he was extremely friendly and conscientious.
Cyndi Cheng
Account Manager, Navigate PR
Working within the Marketing, Communications & PR sector.
What do you do in your current role?
I’m responsible for managing a number of maritime clients ranging from Baltic Exchange to class society to maritime tech companies. My primary role involves creating and maintaining positive relationships with clients and trade media, so as to develop and strengthen positive media exposure and brand reputation for them, via PR and communications.
How did you get your role?
I got my role from David Tubb at Spinnaker. My experience was great. To be very honest, I said no for the role when David called me the first time (he has cleverly spotted my profile online). He successfully convinced me to give it a try in the first call. And throughout the interview process, I have received a lot of guidance and updates – I was informed clearly on next steps and my expectations were well managed.
Is this your first role within the maritime industry? If so, what attracted you to the sector?
Yes. I like how international and diverse the maritime industry is. I can see myself leveraging my 12+ years’ PR experience working in Hong Kong and London covering the Greater China and European markets, as well as learning a lot at the same time. Moreover, focusing on the corporate and trade client sectors also aligns with my career trajectory.
What do you love about the maritime industry?
Besides everything above, I love how welcoming people are in the industry. There are loads of very knowledgeable people who are in the top game of their roles won’t hesitate to share their knowledge. I often heard people saying that nobody knows everything about the maritime industry as it’s so broad, this makes me want to contribute something. It’s also common to see people from all walks of life so you don’t feel too much as an outsider.
Did you relocate for your role?
I moved from Hong Kong to London just before I got this role so I wouldn’t say I relocated for this role. I wish I knew the difference in job titles (and associated job duties) between Hong Kong and the UK, and also the expected salary range. It helps to set expectations when looking for a job in a new country.
What is one piece of advice or a fun fact you would tell someone about the maritime industry?
Nobody knows everything so just ask questions, make connections and have a laugh together!
