This month in Maritime & Shipping Recruitment APAC

Welcome to the last edition of the year.

As the year draws to a close, the world of maritime and shipping recruitment in the APAC region shows no signs of slowing down.

We had a busy month of end-of-year events, including the SSA 2024 Year-End Cocktail Reception and Hong Kong Maritime Week.

Our team have successfully connected job seekers with clients across the APAC region. Our momentum is not slowing down.

In this edition, we explore the latest job opportunities on our website, share updates from our events, provide useful career advice, and more.

Read on...

View some of our hottest jobs in the Asia-Pacific region

Business Development Manager

Singapore

S$9,000 to S$11,000 per month plus up to 25% annual bonus

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IT/OT Systems Engineer

Singapore

S$70,000 to S$100,000 per annum

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Finance Manager

Singapore

S$5,000 to S$7,000 per month

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APAC Head of Sales

Singapore

S$12,000 to S$14,000 per month plus uncapped commission

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Ship Planner/Vessel Scheduler/Operation Executive

Singapore

Up to S$64,000 per annum, excluding bonuses

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Service Engineer

Singapore

Up to S$8,000 per month

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Tanker Pool Manager/Head

Singapore

S$120,000 to S$240,000 per annum, dependent on experience

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Shipping Operator

Singapore

Competitive salary package and benefits

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Training Superintendent - Deck

Mumbai, India

From 38 Lakhs per annum, commensurate with experience

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Marine Superintendent

Shanghai, China

RMB 38,000 per month

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Project Engineering Manager - FPSO Projects

Singapore

Salary starting at S$15,000 per month

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View All of Our Roles The Asia-Pacific Region Here

Why HR Leaders in Maritime Think Hiring Will Be Tough in 2025

The maritime industry is facing an increasingly complex recruitment landscape, with 85% of HR leaders predicting that hiring the right people will be difficult in 2025 (The Talent Market in Transition Report 2024)

Here are the main 10 issues identified by HR leaders:

1. Skill Shortages: The demand for highly skilled professionals, particularly in technical areas such as naval architecture, engineering, and digital transformation, is outpacing the available talent pool.
2. Unrealistic Expectations from Candidates: As competition for top talent intensifies, many candidates have developed unrealistic expectations regarding salary, benefits, and work conditions.
3. Compensation & Benefits Not Competitive: Offering competitive compensation packages can be a struggle, especially compared to industries like technology or finance, where pay and benefits are often deemed more attractive.
4. Counteroffers: Counteroffers from current employers can derail recruitment efforts, with many candidates choosing to stay with their existing employer for a better deal rather than moving to a new company.
5. Unreliable Candidates: Unreliable candidates who pull out of the recruitment process or fail to attend interviews add to recruitment delays and inefficiencies.
6. Recruitment Timelines: Long recruitment timelines often result in top candidates accepting offers elsewhere, especially in a competitive market.
7. Lack of Growth Opportunities: Many candidates are hesitant to join organisations that do not offer clear pathways for career development and growth.
8. Slow Internal Decision-Making: Delays in internal decision-making can frustrate candidates and lead to missed opportunities as they consider offers from other companies.
9. Lack of Employer Value Proposition (EVP): Organisations with a weak EVP struggle to attract top talent, as candidates look for companies that offer a strong sense of purpose, culture, and career growth.
10. Unrealistic Expectations from Hiring Managers: Organisations with a weak EVP struggle to attract top talent, as candidates look for companies that offer a strong sense of purpose, culture, and career growth.

If you’re a senior executive or HR leader in maritime, please read our full insight to find out our strategies to combat these hiring headaches.

Read The Full Insight Here

Rethinking Priorities at work - What truly matters in a new job

As the year comes to a close, it's a natural time to reflect on priorities—both personal and professional. When considering a new job, what truly matters?

While salary and benefits are often top of mind, their impact as extrinsic motivators can only go so far. It's the intrinsic motivators—the deeper reasons we get up in the morning—that often hold the key to lasting job satisfaction and fulfilment.

What are intrinsic motivators in a job search?

Intrinsic motivators vary by individual, but common themes often shape career decisions:

• Career growth and challenges: Career growth is crucial for job satisfaction, as it involves not just climbing the corporate ladder but also personal and professional development through continuous learning, new challenges, and skill enhancement. Opportunities for advancement and intellectual challenges are key motivators for long-term engagement and job changes.
• Work-life balance: Work-life balance is essential for career fulfilment, as it allows individuals to manage professional and personal commitments, reducing stress and preventing burnout. Employers who support work-life balance through flexible policies and wellness programs enhance employee well-being, productivity, and retention.
• Relationships: Interpersonal relationships in the workplace are important for job satisfaction, as positive interactions with colleagues and managers foster a sense of belonging and teamwork. Strong relationships enhance communication, collaboration, and mutual support, contributing to both personal fulfilment and business success.

The Shift from Extrinsic to Intrinsic Motivations

While extrinsic rewards like salary and perks remain important, they often pale in comparison to the intrinsic factors that drive long-term fulfilment. Passion, purpose, and autonomy are far more significant in creating meaningful careers.

Progressive organisations are recognising this shift. Rather than focusing solely on monetary incentives, they are redefining their approach to talent management by fostering cultures that prioritise purpose-driven work, personal growth, and impactful contributions.

As you reflect on your own priorities, consider what truly motivates you—and how it aligns with your next career move.

If You Would Like To Learn More About This Topic, Please Read Our Insight Here

Meet Sufia Algadri, Recruitment Consultant - Technical Shipping at Faststream Recruitment

In this interview, we speak with Sufia Algadri, a Recruitment Consultant specialising in the technical shipping industry. Sufia shares her insights on the candidate market, in-demand skills, career progression and more.

What specific technical skills are most in demand right now in the shipping industry?

"I would say sustainability and digitalisation are driving demand for specific technical skills. Companies tend to look for professionals proficient in vessel performance monitoring systems, data analytics, and energy efficiency optimisation. Additionally, experience in alternative fuels like LNG, methanol, or ammonia is highly sought after, as the industry moves towards decarbonisation targets. Familiarity with software like Planned Maintenance Systems (PMS) and fleet management tools is also a major plus."

Are there any emerging roles or specialisations that candidates should be aware of?

"Yes, the rise of decarbonisation and digitalisation brings about roles like Sustainability Manager, Digital Fleet Manager or Fuel Transition Specialist. Companies are also investing in talent to navigate newbuilding projects, especially for alternative-fuel-ready vessels."

How can candidates make their applications stand out in a competitive job market?

"To stand out, candidates should ensure their CVs or LinkedIn profiles are tailored to highlight not just their technical skills but also their impact on previous organisations. Simplifying CVs is helpful—avoid lengthy descriptions and use concise bullet points instead. Quantify achievements—mention successful drydocking projects, cost reductions, or safety improvements. Highlight certifications like Class 1 COC or specialised training in sustainability and digital tools."

What professional organisations or associations should candidates consider joining?

"Candidates should consider joining associations like the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science, and Technology (IMarEST) and the Nautical Institute, both of which offer excellent networking and professional development opportunities. For those focused on sustainability, the Global Maritime Forum is worth exploring. Regionally, associations like the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) and Hong Kong Shipowners Association provide local connections and insights. Additionally, women in the shipping industry should consider joining the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA), which supports professional growth and fosters a strong network for women in maritime."

Please can you tell me something fun or interesting about yourself that others may not know?

"I enjoy baking and cooking, and I love exploring new recipes online to try out. It’s always exciting to experiment with different flavours and techniques in the kitchen."

Please contact Sufia Algadri if you would like to discuss Technical Shipping Recruitment

Faststream Recruitment APAC – 2025 Events Calendar & Updates

We are excited to share our 2025 Events Calendar, packed with opportunities to connect with you at some of the maritime industry's biggest gatherings:

• Singapore Maritime Week – Monday the 24th to Friday the 28th of March, 2025
• Sea Asia – Tuesday the 25th to Thursday the 27th of March, 2025
• Tradewinds Shipowners Forum Singapore
• Marine Insurance Asia - Thursday the 27th of March, 2025
• SSA Annual Dinner

We’ll also be attending other events throughout the year—stay tuned for updates.

Post-Event Highlights

Catch up on our insights and takeaways from recent events, including:

• Women in Mining and Resources Singapore (WIMAR) Year-End Gala
• Hong Kong Maritime Week 2024
• SSA's 2024 Year-End Cocktail Reception

Let’s Connect

Are you planning to attend any of these events?

Visit our Events Page to see where we’ll be next or contact us to arrange a meeting with our team.

Women in Mining and Resources Singapore (WIMAR SG) Year-End Gala

Our Director of Asia Pacific, Lorenzo Agatiello, and Lead Recruitment Consultant, Jess Choo, had the pleasure of attending the Women in Mining and Resources Singapore (WIMAR) Year-End Gala.

The evening perfectly captured the spirit of this year’s theme: unity, diversity, and pride, beautifully represented by the vibrant Olympic rings.

Guests celebrated their regional identities with splashes of colour, creating a truly unforgettable atmosphere.

Here’s to championing diversity and inclusion across all industries.

Hong Kong Maritime Week 2024 Post-Event Update

Hong Kong Maritime Week was a fantastic opportunity for Sasha Josri and Lorenzo Agatiello to represent Faststream Recruitment Group internationally, travelling from Singapore to engage with clients and industry leaders in one of the world’s top maritime hubs.

Key moments included The Captain’s Table live finals, showcasing ground-breaking innovations, and Pacific Basin Shipping Limited’s Rooftop Party, which brought together shipowners and influential figures from across the industry.

This trip highlighted the importance of fostering global connections and reinforced our commitment to supporting the maritime sector’s growth and innovation.

SSA's 2024 Year-End Cocktail Reception Post-Event Update

Faststream Recruitment Group attended the Singapore Shipping Association’s 2024 Year-End Cocktail event, held recently.

Representing the company were Lorenzo Agatiello, Director of Asia-Pacific; Jon Tay, Principal Consultant for Technical Shipping; and Jess Choo, Lead Recruitment Consultant for Technical Shipping.

The event provided an excellent platform for Faststream’s team to engage with key maritime leaders from prominent organisations such as Maersk, DNV, Solstad Offshore ASA, CMA CGM, and Wilhelmsen Ship Management. These interactions offered valuable insights into the current challenges and emerging opportunities within the global shipping industry.

The evening was marked by insightful conversations that shed light on the future of global shipping.

Faststream Recruitment Group is grateful for the opportunity to participate in these meaningful exchanges and looks forward to strengthening its relationships within the maritime community.

Welcome Jess Choo, Lead Consultant - Technical Shipping

We’re thrilled to announce that Jess Choo has joined Faststream Recruitment Group in Singapore as a Lead Recruitment Consultant on our Technical Shipping Team.

Jess brings a wealth of recruitment experience and a strong passion for aligning talent with business needs.

Her expertise in market mapping and talent strategy further strengthens our commitment to delivering exceptional service.

We are confident that Jess will be a valuable asset to our clients and candidates.

Please join us in welcoming her to the team, and feel free to connect with her.

Meet the team

We are people specialists in the Maritime and Shipping sectors.

Thank you for taking the time to read this month's newsletter. We hope you have found the information within to be insightful and valuable. Please keep an eye out for our upcoming newsletter, where we will continue to provide you with engaging and informative content.