As part of our Why They Stayed series, Spinnaker asked maritime professionals who have remained with the same employer for more than 10 years what encouraged them to stay and grow.

Eva Rodriguez, Director Marine Workforce Development at Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement, reflects on her 23-year career and explains why integrity, trust, opportunity and feeling valued have been so important.

What has been the main reason you have stayed with your employer for over 10 years?

There have been several reasons: the opportunities to grow, the work itself, trust and flexibility, the people and culture, pay and benefits, stability, and the organisation’s values of reliability, respect and integrity.

What has helped you grow the most?

Support from managers and mentors, the freedom to try new things, and opportunities for promotions and role changes have all helped me develop throughout my career.

Was there a particular moment when you realised you wanted to stay?

It was my first meeting with the late Dr Schulte more than 23 years ago.

His charisma and integrity impressed me, but what stood out most was the genuine interest he showed in what a newly employed Fleet Personnel Officer had to say. It did not feel like an employment interview; it felt more like a fireside chat.

That conversation hooked me and left a profound impression.

How has your role changed since you first joined?

My role has changed considerably. I joined as a Fleet Personnel Officer responsible for recruitment and logistics before progressing through roles in both ship management and shipowning.

In 2018, I reached corporate director level. What has remained constant throughout those 23 years is my commitment to seafarers and Marine HR.

What did your employer do to help you take your next step?

It is difficult to identify just one moment. Throughout my career, I have always felt supported and that my work was appreciated.

There have been plenty of opportunities to exchange views and challenge ideas with my superiors. This showed me that my contribution mattered and that I was able to help make great things happen.

Feeling empowered and seen has helped make me who I am today, and it is a significant reason why I still work for the same company.

What advice would you give employers who want good people to stay and grow?

I believe retaining and developing great people starts with integrity, trust and reliability.

Employees want to work for leaders and organisations where integrity guides decisions, trust is earned through actions and reliability is demonstrated every day.

People also want to feel seen, heard and valued. They want to know that their contributions matter, their voices are listened to and their work is meaningful.

Development opportunities matter too, but they are most effective when built on a foundation of trust and genuine care for people.