Meet the Judges: Karen Waltham

My passion is people and during my professional career I have worked both operationally and strategically, holding senior and Executive positions in global and FTSE 100 companies. My focus during my career has been on establishing HR functions, managing complex and extensive Change Management programmes, Talent Management, Leadership Development, Industrial Relations, Business Management and Diversity and Inclusion initiatives.  

In the Maritime sector, I was Head of HR, Europe and Global Talent Director at AET, and Managing Director, HR Consulting, Spinnaker Global.  

I am currently a Maritime Skills Commissioner, leading on the People Management Scheme of Work; a member of the Careers Taskforce, chairing the Careers Professionals Working Group; and am on the Board of Trustees for ISWAN.  

On the Maritime UK Awards, Karen says:

People have always been my passion and since I joined the maritime sector 12 years ago, I have seen a real growth and appetite from companies and individuals working hard as they too are passionate about making and effecting change across our sector now and for the future.    

The maritime sector will continue to play a key role in everyone’s life, although the majority outside the sector are not aware, so we should be proud to celebrate and share our successes. 

The Maritime UK Awards are our opportunity to showcase and thank those who have made a real difference.