From STCW to Leadership Excellence: The Case for Coaching

By Gillian Ferguson FCIPD, Managing Director of Onboard Maritime and Vice-Chair of the International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI)

In the shipping industry, senior leaders face complex challenges daily. From navigating dynamic global markets to managing multicultural teams in high-stress environments, the demands on maritime professionals are immense. C-suite executives, Captains, Chief Officers, and Chief Engineers shoulder significant responsibilities, not only in leading operations but also in fostering effective teams. Leadership at sea and ashore is integral to ensuring that the shipping industry remains resilient and forward-thinking, particularly when it comes to addressing challenges such as recruitment and retention.

In my experience of working with executives in other industry sectors such as FMCG and financial services, I have witnessed the transformative impact of leadership coaching. This experience, combined with my recent completion of the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) Level 7 Executive Coaching and Mentoring qualification, has strengthened my commitment to supporting maritime leaders in navigating the complexities of their roles and achieving their full potential.

While professional qualifications such as those gained under the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) framework and the MCA Deck and Engineering syllabi lay a solid technical foundation, they often fall short of addressing the critical people skills required for leadership. These qualifications focus on the technical competencies needed for safe and efficient operations but rarely touch upon the nuances of leading diverse teams, building resilient onboard cultures, or navigating complex interpersonal dynamics. This is where executive coaching can make a profound difference, bridging the gap between technical expertise and exceptional leadership.

Coaching: Unlocking Potential Through Motivation, Development, and Knowledge

The Value of Executive Leadership Coaching in Maritime

Executive leadership coaching offers a personalised approach to professional development, empowering maritime leaders to unlock their full potential. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Enhanced Performance

Studies show that coaching can lead to significant improvements in both individual and team performance. According to research, individuals who receive coaching experience up to a 70% increase in personal performance, while teams see a 50% boost. These gains are particularly valuable in the maritime sector, where operational efficiency and effective teamwork directly impact safety and profitability.

2. High Return on Investment (ROI)

Executive coaching is not just an investment in people; it’s an investment in organisational success. Research indicates that coaching can yield an ROI of 500% to 700%, driven by enhanced productivity, better decision-making, and improved employee retention. For the maritime industry, where high turnover rates can lead to costly recruitment and training cycles, this is a compelling advantage.

3. Improved Self-Confidence and Communication

Leadership in the maritime sector often demands quick, confident decision-making under pressure. A recent survey found that 80% of individuals who engaged in coaching reported increased self-confidence, while 73% noted improvements in their relationships. Strong communication and confidence are crucial in fostering trust and collaboration, whether on the bridge, in the engine room, or in boardrooms ashore.

Going Beyond the Syllabus

Coaching goes beyond the syllabus by addressing the human elements of leadership that are often overlooked in technical training. For instance, the STCW and MCA qualifications teach officers how to safely navigate ships, manage machinery, and comply with regulations.

However, they do not delve into topics like managing conflict, cultivating a positive organisational culture, or motivating a team under challenging circumstances. Executive coaching fills this gap by:

• Helping leaders develop emotional intelligence to better understand and manage their own emotions and those of their teams.

• Equipping leaders with strategies for handling difficult conversations and resolving conflicts constructively.

• Enhancing leaders’ ability to inspire and engage their teams, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

• Supporting leaders in balancing operational demands with long-term strategic thinking.

  
  

By focusing on these areas, coaching helps maritime leaders create environments where their teams can thrive. This, in turn, addresses industry-wide issues such as recruitment and retention by making the maritime workplace more supportive and attractive.

Coaching and the Maritime Competency Framework

The Maritime Competency Framework, established through frameworks like STCW and the requirements for MCA exams, provides a critical structure for building technical proficiency. However, the framework’s focus on operational skills often overlooks the leadership and management aspects required in today’s complex shipping environment. Executive coaching complements the Maritime Competency Framework by ensuring that leaders not only meet technical standards but also excel in strategic and people-focused roles.

For example, coaching can prepare MCA-certified professionals to transition into senior roles with confidence. By building skills such as conflict resolution, cultural intelligence, and motivational leadership, coaching ensures that these leaders can meet the demands of modern maritime operations while maintaining compliance with established standards.

Empowering the Future of Maritime Leadership

Investing in the development of our maritime leaders through executive coaching is essential for steering the industry toward a successful and sustainable future. Leadership is not just about ensuring compliance or hitting operational targets; it’s about inspiring people, fostering innovation, and building resilient cultures both at sea and ashore. By empowering maritime professionals to reach their full potential, we can shape a global industry that is not only efficient and safe but also adaptive and forward-looking.

As someone deeply committed to the development of maritime leaders, I am passionate about using my expertise to support this transformation. Coaching offers a unique opportunity to help individuals grow, enabling them to tackle challenges with confidence and lead with purpose.

The future of the maritime industry depends on strong, dynamic leadership—and that begins with investing in people.

Gillian Ferguson FCIPD, Managing Director of Onboard Maritime and Vice-Chair of the International Association of Maritime Institutions (IAMI), brings over 20 years of experience in managing global teams. Her expertise spans Law, Executive Coaching, and HR. Gillian applies this wealth of experience to support Onboard Maritime’s partners, clients, and cadets, helping to shape the future of maritime leadership. She is passionate about fostering strong, dynamic leadership to ensure the maritime industry continues to thrive in a competitive and evolving landscape.