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.

Sarah Wawrzewski, Hub Controller and HR Manager UK at Wilhelmsen Ships Service Limited, reflects on her 22-year career and explains how trust, continued development and being given an opportunity have shaped her journey.

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

The people and culture, opportunities to grow, the work itself, and the trust and flexibility I have received have all played an important part.

What has helped you grow the most?

Support from managers and mentors has been very important, alongside new responsibilities, promotions and changes to my role.

I have also benefited from learning from colleagues and having the freedom to try new things.

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

Looking back, it is hard to believe that 22 years have passed so quickly. What has made the journey so rewarding is the opportunity to continually learn and grow.

Even now, I am still developing new skills, taking on additional responsibilities and embracing new challenges.

How has your role changed since you first joined?

My role is very different from when I first started. Over the years, I have worked across both Finance and HR, gaining experience in many different areas of the business.

Today, I am a Hub Controller responsible for four countries, including Norway, where our head office is based. I support several business units from a Finance perspective while also leading HR activities and acting as Company Manager for the UK.

Both Finance and HR are constantly evolving, so the variety within my role means there is always something new to learn and another challenge to embrace.

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

I did not have all the qualifications on paper, but the company saw something in me and gave me the opportunity to grow.

They took a chance on me and supported my development. Twenty-two years later, I am still here, continuing to learn, develop and accept new challenges.

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I have been given throughout my career.

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

Give people a chance.

Qualifications are important, but they do not always tell the whole story. Some of the best people may not have every credential you are looking for, but they have the drive, attitude and work ethic needed to succeed.

You might be surprised by what someone can accomplish when they know another person believes in them.