Maritime UK - Experts & Thought Leaders

Maritime UK is delighted to launch the Maritime Future Leaders' Network, a new initiative aimed at supporting the next generation of pioneers in the maritime sector. Designed for ambitious young professionals who are aspiring to build successful careers in the maritime with a desire to expand their professional networks, establish connections, enhance their confidence, and contribute to a more dynamic and diverse maritime workforce. Nationwide initiative Through the Maritime Future Leaders' Network, members will have opportunities to learn from industry experts, engage in mentorship, and participate in discussions with peers from across the sector. This nationwide initiative will feature in-person events, including those held at the Coastal Powerhouse Summits, alongside regular online workshops, ensuring access for professionals from all corners of the United Kingdom. Tools, inspiration, and support Scarlett Black, Chair of the Maritime Future Leaders' Network, commented, "We’re thrilled to launch this network as a resource and community for the next generation of young maritime pioneers. By providing essential tools, inspiration, and a network of support, we aim to empower individuals who are ready to make a difference and lead the future of our industry." The Maritime Future Leaders' Network is open to all maritime professionals who are eager to expand their skills, grow their network, and make a positive impact within the sector.

Maritime UK Week 2024 wrapped up with great success, showcasing the incredible advancements in the maritime sector and engaging thousands across the UK. Held from 7th to 11th October, this dynamic week featured a number of standout events, bringing together industry leaders, professionals, and the public to celebrate the maritime sector’s vital role. With a focus on cutting-edge innovation, sustainability, and exciting career opportunities, the week was a fantastic opportunity to explore everything the maritime industry has to offer and its bright future. Wide range of opportunities Maritime UK Week shines a spotlight on the sector's crucial role in the UK and its bold commitment to the global push for decarbonisation, technological breakthroughs, and innovation. Maritime UK Week shines a spotlight on the sector's crucial role in the UK The industry offers highly-skilled, well-paid careers, and this week showcases the wide range of opportunities available to young people exploring a future in maritime. With a diverse programme of events reaching both industry professionals and local communities, Maritime UK has highlighted the vital work of the sector across every corner of the UK. Resilient maritime industry Maritime UK CEO, Chris Shirling-Rooke MBE commented: “This year's Maritime UK Week has provided an opportunity for attendees to discuss the future of maritime in the UK, with a focus on driving innovation, sustainability, and growth in the sector. As an island nation enabling 95% of the UK’s global trade, the importance of a strong and resilient maritime industry has never been more apparent to navigate the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing global landscape.” Throughout the week, people from across the UK had the chance to discover the wide range of career opportunities within maritime, as well as learn more about the sector’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic growth.

The Naval Support Integrated Global Network (NSIGN) Programme has been established to deliver the future of in-service support to Royal Navy warships and submarines, along with maintenance and operation of the three Naval Bases. NSIGN will be a framework of contracts that will support all legacy, new-to-service and future platform types including modular solutions.  NSIGN is now in the concept phase and within this, the Ships Engineering Project has stood up ready to continue with market engagement aimed at gaining a market view of the emerging requirements and testing the feasibility of options. Demands of Navy 2040 NSIGN Ships Engineering Project seeks to continue to improve ship availability Building on the significant achievements of the Future Maritime Support Programme, Commercially Supported Shipping & Off-Shore Patrol Vessel Support Contracts and utilising the learning from key initiatives. NSIGN Ships Engineering Project seeks to continue to improve ship availability and increase value for money to the UK MOD, while maintaining resilience though a multi-billion pound network of contracts from 2028 onwards.  UK MOD will explore options for the adoption of civil ship management models for application in the defence environment where applicable while ensuring it protects sovereign capabilities.  The Royal Navy is evolving and support is key enabler The Royal Navy is evolving, and support is a key enabler. The MOD, through DE&S, has signalled a level of ambition to support the Royal Navy to meet the demands of Navy 2040 and in doing so establish a Support Ecosystem that balances the need for a sustainable Sovereign Capability with Commercial Opportunities that enable the Royal Navy to operate with confidence globally.