Chris Lawrence has spent over 31 years working in the marine and offshore industry. His career shows how passion, care, and strong relationships lead to success. In this article, we share his story and key lessons about work, recruitment, and leadership. The ideas are simple and clear, easy to follow for anyone interested in this field.
Starting the Marine Career
Chris grew up in Singapore. His family was neither rich nor poor. His father served in the military, and his mother took care of the family. From a young age, Chris wanted to be independent. He wanted to see the world and learn to survive on his own.
He studied maritime at polytechnic. Sailing gave him a chance to travel and experience different cultures. After serving in the Navy during national service, he worked in shipyards. Then, he moved into offshore rigging and mooring. Each job taught him new skills and helped him grow.
Chris said, “I wanted independence. Sailing was the way for me to achieve that.” His parents supported him, even if they worried. Being away from family was hard, especially during holidays. But this time helped Chris become who he is today.
People Are Key at Work
Chris learned early that people make the biggest difference at work. He said, “People follow people, not companies.” He has worked with many colleagues and bosses. He thanks good leaders for his long career. He had only one bad boss and uses that as a lesson to be better.
He explained that in any group, you will not like everyone. That is normal. But you can still work professionally with those you do not get along with. Finding friends and allies at work helps make the environment better.
This attitude also shows in how Chris recruits people. He meets candidates first and listens carefully. He said, “I don’t judge by the CV. I judge by the person.” This helps him find people who fit the team and will stay longer in their roles.
Recruitment Is More Than Hiring
Chris sees recruitment as a journey, not a one-time event. He stays in touch with people he places in jobs. He checks how they are doing and supports them through challenges. This care builds trust and lowers turnover.
He compares recruitment to sports management. Like a good agent helps an athlete grow, a good recruiter helps candidates build their careers. This benefits both the employee and the employer.
Chris keeps track of small details like birthdays. He uses these moments to connect personally. This shows candidates that he cares, and they often return to him for future opportunities.
Hiring for Attitude, Not Just Experience
When building his team, Chris looks for attitude first. Experience is good but not required. He hires people with the right character and values. He believes skills can be taught but attitude is harder to change.
Chris compares a team to a football team. Different players have different strengths. Some defend, some score goals, some assist. When they work together, they win. He looks for people who fit well in the team culture and help the team grow.
New Goals and Growth
Today, Chris works with a company that brings skilled workers from Asia to the UK and Australia. They focus on shipbuilding for defense and healthcare support. One goal is to help care for the elderly in Australia, inspired by his own experience with his mother.
Chris wants to be a voice for the marine industry in Asia. He hopes to bring more local people into the field and show their skills to the world. He also wants recruiters to see their job as helping people, not just filling jobs.
Leadership That Matters
Chris values humility. He listens to others and accepts criticism. He believes leaders are part of the team, not above it. His family helps keep him grounded, especially his wife and daughter.
He shared, “Small wins matter. Don’t compare yourself to others. Be proud of your own progress.” This simple lesson helps him lead with patience and care.
Take Action and Learn More
Chris Lawrence’s story teaches us to focus on people, build trust, and work with humility. Whether you start your career or lead a team, these lessons matter.
If you want to learn more about the marine and offshore industry or improve recruitment skills, follow Chris’s work and connect with experts who care about people. Sign up for our newsletter to get more stories and advice like this in your inbox.
Use these lessons to build stronger teams and lasting careers. Remember, success is not just skills or money but the journey and people you meet.
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To learn more about Chris Lawrence’s work or explore recruitment in the marine industry, reach out to his company. They focus on fair hiring and long-term career support. Let Chris’s journey inspire your next step.
