Hannah Kite

"By nature I thrive in good structured environments, working in the Merchant Navy has this structure, with ranks and working in teams. The work requires good forward planning, the need to be logical and have the patience with problem solving. It can be physically demanding but more so can also be mentally demanding so there is also a need to be calm in stressful conditions. As a Chief Officer I mentor cadets on board, I enjoy seeing the new generation starting out on their careers and take satisfaction from seeing them progress. I also always take time out to ensure the crew on board are happy and healthy. "

"Problem solving, working in small teams and working on the water, there is something unique about working at sea. Research and continually learning "

"My dad inspired me, he was also in the Merchant Navy, I wanted a focused career path that was very different with clear goals, with lots of travelling, good job security and to be well paid. I was fortunate that before leaving school I had already decided on the Merchant Navy so I applied to over 30 companies and was accepted by several. I stayed with the same company for my complete time at sea. I have met and worked with a huge diverse group of men, only on several occasions have I sailed with other women. "

"You have to be happy in your own company, most seafarers now have access to the internet so communicating with home is much more accessible and is a vital part of daily life. You can have a happy relationship at home, I’m happily married!! As a woman on a ship I knew that I’d have to work harder to prove my ability, at times it was very difficult but as my career progressed I realised that this only worked in my favour as I developed extremely high standards from myself and my teams. "

"When I was in the Merchant Navy, working on offshore vessels my typical day was…. 4-8 navigational watch,8 – 12 working on deck with my deck team of about 5 crew, delegating jobs regarding vessel maintenance, and paperwork 12- 1600 rest (reading, sleeping, personal time) 1600 – 2000 navigational watch 2000 – 2200 my time but could easily include paperwork2200 – 0400 rest… sleep!! Now I’m studying, my usual day is…. Morning – gym and other day to day tasks. Afternoon up to 1900 – study "

"1996 – 2018 Merchant Navy - Maersk Supply Service (from cadet to Chief Officer, 2010 – 18 Chief Officer) 2018 to present – University of Plymouth distant learning degree – BSc (hon) Sustainable Maritime Operations "