Meet the judges: John Napton, Brittany Ferries

The Maritime UK Awards will be judged by a panel of internationally recognised maritime leaders, who will be profiled over the coming weeks.

About John

An accountant by profession now 30 years at Brittany Ferries. Having grown up in Plymouth and its’ marine history it seemed inevitable to me to pursue a maritime based job but took the commercial route rather than the Navy or another. Working through and expanding into various accounting-based roles, HR, Legal and then Portside operations. I found myself as director of the UK and Irish subsidiaries of our French privately owned company. The diversity of Maritime, transport, tourism, retail, restaurateur, as well as being a key regional link in our three southern UK ports provides the perfect amount of challenge.

On the Maritime UK Awards, John says: 

“Awards are important in all sectors to create visibility of the dynamic and progressive nature of its members. For Maritime it is more important as the industry has not previously created enough noise about its own and its members ability and achievements in supporting an island nation

“When ask to participate as a judge in your chosen industry it is unfathomable that you would not relish the opportunity to participate in shining a light on the up and coming influencers in the industry.

“It is an opportunity to show case your / your teams abilities and vision for the future of a varied and crucial sector.

"The Southwest is steeped with Maritime history and remains on the forefront of maritime development and innovation. There is nowhere in my opinion more relevant to host these awards."