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30 under 30: Ones to Watch – Showcasing the next generation of maritime talent (8)

  • Sep 22, 2025
  • Reading Time: 5 mins

This month, we’re shining a spotlight on the next generation of rising talent in the maritime industry. From mentees turned trailblazers, to client-recommended innovators, and fresh voices from across our network — these are the ones to watch.

Milas Green
Regional Representative and Commercial Manager, Green-Jakobsen (UK)

What attracted you to the maritime industry?
It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly one thing, but I guess it was the feeling of importance and impact. The industry is such an instrumental player in global trade, and without it, our civilisation wouldn’t be as we know it today. I’ve always been fascinated by work that has a real impact. Not that other sectors don’t, but in our industry, you can feel the effects straight away whenever there’s a disruption or restriction. Of course, I shouldn’t fail to mention that the travel, international opportunities, and global networks also made it even more appealing to me. And lastly, I love big machines!! 🙂

Have you had any mentors or inspirational people who inspired your career or the sector you are in?

My father, Erik Green, has always been a great source of inspiration to me. I’m incredibly proud of what he has built over the past 20 years and how Green-Jakobsen has helped set new standards in crew welfare, safety, and performance.

Of course, I wouldn’t be where I am without my boss, Lennart Ripke, who has tirelessly guided me in understanding the industry and helped me build a strong network.
I also take great inspiration from so many people within the maritime sector. For one, I deeply admire Karen Martin – now a great friend of mine – whose approach to networking and business development has been a tremendous personal help. Steven Gosling from the NI has also been invaluable in helping me establish myself in the industry.

And then, of course, there are our friends at OTG (Raal and Catherine), along with all our fantastic customers and business partners, who continue to inspire me daily. I truly feel I don’t have to look far to find support or ideas.

It’s a real privilege to be part of an industry filled with such kind and helpful people.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
It’s always difficult to say, but I hope to be a key part of Green-Jakobsen’s growth in the UK and beyond. We have I also hope to help shape the approach to Human Performance within Maritime, and create a better and more attractive industry to those considering seafaring and shipping in general.

Is there any advice you have been given or would give to someone about coming into the maritime industry?
Don’t be too hard on yourself, you’ll learn the lingo, and so many people are willing to extend a helping hand.

Finn Parry
Junior Dry Cargo Shipbroker, Rigel Shipping

What attracted you to the maritime industry?
My father was a shipping lawyer and is now the CEO of Spinnaker, so I have been surrounded by shipping talk and shipping people my whole life, including shipbrokers, lawyers, charterers ….I was ensnared from the start!

Have you had any mentors or inspirational people who inspired your career or the sector you are in?
My Dad! And I’m lucky enough that his best mate is the CEO of a major shipowner who also started out as a shipbroker. They have both always looked like they enjoy their work and had a lot of fun – work hard play hard. They have also both made it clear that shipping is just so interesting and varied and that it’s a great industry in which to make friends all over the world. What’s not to like?

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Hopefully as an experienced, accomplished and respected shipbroker with clients who like and trust me. I totally buy in to the notion of ‘My word, my bond’ and believe that doing things right and being ethical will win you business for the long term.

Is there any advice you have been given or would give to someone about coming into the maritime industry?
Try hard to get access to work experience placements. Bear in mind that people buy people, so personality, friendliness, curiosity and showing genuine commitment are key. This is what I was told and I can see how it works in practice.

James Chalk
Underwriting Executive, Steamship Mutual

What attracted you to the maritime industry?
What initially drew me to the maritime industry was its deeply people-focused nature and the sheer scale of its global impact. Shipping is often taken for granted, yet it underpins international trade and touches nearly every aspect of daily life. Its importance becomes most visible when something goes wrong—those moments make headlines and highlight just how critical the industry is.

Have you had any mentors or inspirational people who inspired your career or the sector you are in?

My interest in marine insurance was sparked by my uncle, who works as a broker. Listening to his stories about the sector opened my eyes to how dynamic, complex, and globally significant London is as a marketplace.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Hopefully, still in P&I insurance!

Is there any advice you have been given or would give to someone about coming into the maritime industry?
Don’t hesitate to ask questions—no matter your age or experience, we’re all constantly learning.
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