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.
Max Downton
Associate Sustainability Manager, Navigator Gas
What attracted you to the maritime industry? To be honest, the maritime industry wasn’t something I’d really considered until I started my job with Navigator. But in the time I’ve been here, I’ve genuinely come to appreciate just how interesting, complex, and diverse this whole field is. What truly draws me in now is the international nature of maritime. It gives you a unique way to look at global relationships, how trade works, and the impact of government actions worldwide. This global perspective also means that the steps we take, like making Navigator a more sustainable company, can have a real impact on a global scale. For instance, shipping accounts for over 3% of global emissions, which is actually more than many individual countries. That’s a significant challenge, but it’s also incredibly compelling to be at the forefront of addressing it and contributing to those solutions.
Have you had any mentors or inspirational people who inspired your career or the sector you are in? My initial interest in sustainability and how it ties into business really stemmed from being a fan of Elon Musk and Tesla about ten years ago. Before he became a more controversial figure, I found his ambition to revolutionise electric transport incredibly fascinating and genuinely inspiring. Regardless of current opinions, I believe he deserves credit for significantly accelerating the development and proliferation of electric vehicles. That whole experience really highlighted something crucial for me: true sustainable change needs to go hand-in-hand with sound business principles and profitability. It showed me that for big, lasting impact, sustainability can’t just be a standalone ideal; it has to make good business sense.Since joining Navigator Gas, my manager, Alex Walser, has been an absolutely instrumental mentor and role model. He’s been pivotal in developing my career over the last four years. Alex was the person who really gave me the opportunity to prove myself. He actively pushed for my development, offering me a funded Master’s/apprenticeship course while I continued working. His strong work ethic, fair leadership, and commitment to continuous development have been core to me reaching where I am today. I’ve learned an incredible amount from him, both about the industry and about effective leadership.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? In 10 years, I see myself in a leadership role within sustainability, specifically as a Head of Sustainability or Chief Sustainability Officer. I believe the skills I’m developing in this field are highly transferable, which means I’d be open to exploring opportunities in other industries if the right fit came along. However, my preference now would be to stay adjacent to the maritime industry. I’m deeply invested in its journey and would love to see through its crucial transition towards 2050. Being part of that significant shift would be incredibly rewarding.
Is there any advice you have been given or would give to someone about coming into the maritime industry?
Never stop learning & try to understand the “why” behind what you’re doing, not just the “how.”
Maria Michael
Trainee Account Executive (Underwriting and Claims Handling), ITIC
What attracted you to the maritime industry? After a summer internship at a ship management company during my high school years, I decided that I would like to work in an industry that combines tradition and innovation, so I decided to pursue Maritime Business with Law at the University of Plymouth, and then I did my Master’s in Maritime Safety and Security Management at City St. George’s in London. During my time there being surrounded by peers from different shipping backgrounds only fuelled my interest in pursuing a maritime related career.
Have you had any mentors or inspirational people who inspired your career or the sector you are in?
I was lucky be Charlotte Kirk’s mentee as part of the Shipwrights’ MentorShip program during my time at university. Her advice, our regular meetups and her positive outlook when I would feel lost have really helped me find my way during and after my studies. She has lots of experience and knowledge of the industry and is well connected not only in the U.K but also in my home country Cyprus. I connected with many people in the Cypriot shipping industry thanks to her!
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Being better at claims handling!
Is there any advice you have been given or would give to someone about coming into the maritime industry?
Be curious and stay open to learning..shipping is a complex, global industry with many layers and it takes time to understand the full scope. Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions because people in this industry are very generous with their knowledge, especially if you show genuine interest.
Sasha Stewart
Account Handler, Miller Insurance
What attracted you to the maritime industry? The main attraction to the maritime industry for me personally was how dynamic and newsworthy it can be. When something goes wrong in the maritime world, it will make news headlines because of the global importance shipping holds. I find it fascinating working in an industry that holds such great importance and touches so many aspects of the world, from international trade to environmental protection. Being a part of something with such a wide-reaching impact excites me.
Have you had any mentors or inspirational people who inspired your career or the sector you are in? My grandfather has been a huge inspiration for my interest in the maritime industry. He was an underwriter at Lloyd’s and spent much of his career writing marine risks. Hearing some of his stories about the maritime world really sparked my fascination with the sector. His passion and expertise showed me how dynamic and significant this industry is, and it’s inspired me to follow in his footsteps and build my own career in this field.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Hopefully still in marine insurance!
Is there any advice you have been given or would give to someone about coming into the maritime industry?
Do it! Not only are you working in an industry that is constantly evolving and challenging the way we do things, but you also meet some great people alongside it.