SKILLS FOR LIFE
As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2025, we’ve spoken to Kieren Davis, Assistant UK Terminal Manager – Grimaldi Group. Kieren was awarded the ‘Rising Star Award’ at the Mersey Maritime Industry Awards 2024. Kieren discusses his career so far, why he chose to take up an apprenticeship, and what he would say to others interested in starting an apprenticeship…
How did you start off your career?
“I never expected to be a part of the maritime industry; it all happened quite by chance. I’d recently finished college and had decided that I didn’t want to go to straight back into formal education, so I spent an evening looking at apprenticeships online and stumbled across one posted by ACL.
Having read through the details, I found it to be a potentially interesting career and put my application forward. Following two interviews I was offered the job and the rest is history.”
Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship?
“Earning money whilst learning and building a career at the same time was what interested me the most. At that point in my life, I felt that an apprenticeship was a better pathway to building a career rather than university.
I would happily take on further education now as I feel I have a career path where it would be beneficial, whereas previously I felt it wouldn’t be useful using my time on a degree I may not even benefit from.”
What does your everyday role consist of?
“My days vary but my normal role consists of collating and reporting RORO bookings for our upcoming voyages and ensuring we have sufficient equipment to handle the bookings. I will then respond to cargo queries from customers working alongside several other departments within the business to ensure that they have accurate updates on the vessels and cargo status.
I will act as a Port Captain, fulfilling roles normally handled by port agents such as coordinating vessel arrival/movements vs tides, confirming pilotage requirements and booking both adequate towage and linesmen for arrival/departure passages. I ensure that HMRC & UKBF requirements are met.As well as all the preparation and compliance needed to get a vessel in and out of the port, when the vessel is alongside and working, I am the responsible person, in charge of the vessel and its cargo operations, including the safe and efficient discharge and loading of tens of millions of pounds worth of cargo.”
What would you say to others interested in applying for an apprenticeship?
“Apprenticeships are a fantastic avenue for anyone wanting to begin their career and earn some money whilst still furthering your academic qualifications.
I would recommend an apprenticeship to everyone. They don’t only provide on-the-job training, but also help build knowledge and experience, allowing you to take on responsibilities confidently and calmly.
I believe they provide fantastic opportunities and set you up with a strong foundation in any career!”
