Who Is Rebecca Hughes & What Is Her Role As The Global Director of Crew Management

What is your role with V. Group and what is it you really want to achieve within it?

My role within V. Group is Global Director for Crew Management. I am responsible for leadership and delivery of all crew management activities with specific focus on global crew planning, seafarer progression Retention of our crew is crucial in this. I don’t do this alone — I lead through a dedicated leadership team of Regional Crew Management Partners (RCMPs).

Through them, we work with our Crew Management Partners (CMPs), who serve as the single point of contact for the career development and planning of our crew — both when they’re onboard and when they’re at home.

Together, we ensure that crew planning, support, and communication are delivered with consistency, care, and accountability.

Alongside them, we work closely with our Workforce Management team to ensure we’re not just focused on today’s operation, but also planning for tomorrow — building the capacity and readiness we need to support future growth.

What was your first job, and what did you learn from it?

Working in the accounts department of a timber merchant as a schoolchild taught me the value of:

• Precision and attention to detail – Numbers matter, and accuracy builds trust.
• Responsibility – Even as a young team member, my work contributed to the bigger picture.
• Understanding how a business runs – From the ground up, I saw how operations, finance, and people connect.
• Hard work and humility – I wasn’t above doing the small tasks — I learned from them.
• Respect for every role – Everyone contributes, whether it's on the shop floor or behind a ledger.

That experience shaped how I approach leadership today — with a grounded view of what it takes to run a business and a deep respect for the people who make it work every day.

What's the one thing that inspired you to join this company?

Having worked in the shipping industry for 25 years I was inspired to join V.Group because of its scale, ambition, and purpose. Few companies have the global reach, operational complexity, and direct impact on seafarers’ lives that V.Group does — and that’s exactly where I knew I could make a difference.

What drew me in most was the opportunity to lead a function that sits at the heart of maritime operations: crew management. It’s not just about filling schedules — it’s about supporting people, building trust, and ensuring our crews feel connected, respected, and looked after, wherever they are in the world so that they chose V as a family for life.

As someone who started their career understanding how the smallest operational roles tie into the big picture, I saw this role as a chance to lead with empathy and purpose — to bring operational discipline, strategic foresight, and human leadership into how we manage and support our crews globally.

V.Group gave me the platform to do that — and the mandate to help shape not just today’s crew management model, but the future of it.

What's a skill is most important to you in your role?

In global crew management, no two days are ever the same. Whether it's changing regulations, last-minute crew changes, weather disruptions, client demands, or geopolitical uncertainty, the environment we operate in is constantly shifting.

That’s why adaptability isn’t just useful — it’s essential.

As a leader, I need to be able to pivot quickly, make clear decisions with limited information, and guide my team through complexity without losing focus on the crew’s experience or our operational standards.

Adaptability means:

• Staying calm in chaos
• Balancing short-term demands with long-term planning
• Empowering my team to respond, not react
• Always asking: “What does the situation need now — and what will it need next?”

In a people-centric, fast-moving environment like ours, adaptability is what turns challenges into delivery — and pressure into progress.

Finally what advice would give a seafarer looking to develop their career with V.?

My advice is simple — take ownership of your journey.

At V.Group, we have the scale, structure, and support to help you grow — but your career will move as fast as you drive it.

Here are a few guiding principles:

1. Be Curious, Always
   Ask questions. Learn beyond your rank. Understand the “why” behind procedures — that’s what sets leaders apart.
2. Show Up Consistently
   Reliability and professionalism get noticed. Be the crew member others can count on — both onboard and ashore.
3. Seek Feedback, Not Just Promotion
   Growth isn’t just about your next rank — it’s about being ready for it. Ask where you can improve and act on it.
4. Engage with Your Crew Management Partner (CMP)
   They’re not just here for planning — they’re your career partner. Let them know your goals so they can help shape the path with you.
5. Think Long-Term
   Whether you see yourself staying at sea or moving ashore, build skills that will serve you in both worlds — leadership, communication, adaptability.

At V.Group, we don’t just manage careers — we grow people. So step forward, own your development, and we’ll walk the journey with you.

Two high sea rescues highlight safety at sea isn’t just a priority – it’s a way of life.

Shore staff, particularly in Manila extended their deepest appreciation and utmost respect to the courageous crews of Hoegh Brasilia, headed by Captain Jesus C. Bautista, who responded without hesitation to a call of distress from OSV Leader on 12th July 2025, off the coast of Cuba.

The crew swiftly altered course and rescued three seafarers, offering them immediate medical care, food, water, and dry clothing before safely disembarking them in Jamaica for repatriation. The swift and selfless actions in the face of danger exemplify the true spirit of heroism and solidarity that defines the maritime profession. The bravery, skill, and compassion not only saved lives but also reminded us all of the vital role seafarers play—not just as workers of the sea, but as guardians of other seafarers.

This commitment was echoed across the globe by the crew of Seaways Yellowstone, who rescued three crew members found adrift in a liferaft after abandoning their vessel, MV Corolu, in the South Pacific. They were safely brought to Auckland, New Zealand.

Both these actions are a testament to the professionalism, preparedness, and humanitarian spirit of our seafarers. They remind us that no matter where we are, the maritime community remains united in its duty to protect fellow seafarers at sea.

Well done to all involved—your courage and care make a difference.

The 2025 Safety Culture Survey is Now Live

Have your say!

Your participation helps us understand what’s working well and where we can improve. It supports our commitment to a proactive, learning-oriented safety culture and helps shape a safer, stronger V.Group for everyone.

All responses are anonymous and handled by the Occupational Psychology Centre (OPC) — our trusted external partner. No one at V.Group will see individual responses.

Is there anything new in 2025?

This year, we’ve made several improvements to make the survey more relevant, efficient, and insightful:

• Fewer questions per safety culture building block, ensuring that the important data is still captured but the questions are quick, simple & easy to understand and respond.
• Additional section on V. key cultural behaviours:  Decisiveness – Customer Focus – Accountability – Simplicity.
• New section on further drivers that contribute to a strong safety culture: Career progression; Wellbeing; Pride & loyalty
• Optional name disclosure: At the end of the survey, you may choose to provide your name. This will be seen only by our external partner, OPC, and used solely to assess how safe colleagues feel in being open — a key indicator of cultural safety. It will never be shared with V.Group.

How to take part:

• Online: Use the secure weblink below
• Offline: If you face accessibility issues, ask from the support contacts below the interactive PDF version.
• Complete the survey on any device — laptop, phone, or tablet.
• Time required: Around 15 minutes.
• Support: Contact Group HSSEQ (artemis.kazantzidi@vships.com) or your local HSSEQ Manager if you need help or have questions

Be open and honest and #haveyoursay!

Seafarer Workforce Management Update

Over the past two months, you should have been introduced to your dedicated single point of contact for all onboard crew planning matters. While this change does not affect your connections related to mobilisation, it is an important step in streamlining communication and support for you while working with V.

We have a strong focus on driving your career development, from your first voyage and as you move through the ranks onboard, through to potentially stepping ashore with V.

Your Crew Management Partner (CMP) is your advocate, planner, supporter, and protector—working to ensure your time onboard is efficient and safe, and your time ashore is meaningful. They help you grow professionally, handle your planning logistics, and represent your interests across the organisation. Essentially, your CMP is here to make your career at sea work—safely, smoothly, and on your terms.

In addition to the support provided by your CMP, our Workforce Management team collaborates with fleet managers ashore and senior officersonboard, and is dedicated to overseeing the career development pipeline for all our officers. This involves:

• Identifying and nurturing high-potential individuals: Recognising those with the skills and aspirations to take on leadership roles in the future.
• Providing continuous learning opportunities: Offering training and development programs to enhance your skills and prepare you for future challenges.
• Supporting career progression: Assisting you in navigating your career path within V, ensuring you have the resources and guidance needed to advance.

By centralising support and focusing on your development, we aim to make your journey at sea more rewarding and your time at home more fulfilling.

Should you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to your designated CMP. They are here to support you every step of the way.

V.Ships Secures 10 Vessels in June Across Tanker, Bulk, and Gas Segments.

June was an exciting and strategically significant month for V.Ships, with contracts secured for 10 vessels across tankers, bulk carriers, and LPG. These wins reflect deepening partnerships with key clients and important breakthroughs into new markets.

A special mention goes to Frontline Management AS, who entrusted us with the management of four LR2 tankers — Front Castor, Front Capella, Front Polaris, and Front Pollux — a valued client continuing to place confidence in our services.

An equally significant milestone: new customer Algoma Central Corporation selected V.Ships for the management of its newbuild bulk carrier, Algoma Legacy.

This represents a significant breakthrough for our presence in North America, giving us a valuable foothold with an owner whose substantial fleet has historically been managed in-house . Algoma, in partnership with CSL, is creating a pool of SUL (self-unloading) bulkers, and being awarded this vessel gives us valuable access to further potential collaboration. Notably, this breakthrough was heavily supported by CSL, a valued V.Ships customer for 27 years.

Additional highlights include:

• Silk Sea Road contracted V.Ships for the management of one bulk carrier, continuing a productive relationship.
• Sonangol Shipping Angola awarded V. the management of two chemical/oil tankers, reinforcing our presence in Africa.
• Doria Shipping PLC, managed from our Chennai team, entrusted our Singapore office with the tanker Lady of Doria, reflecting confidence in our operational reach.
• Sahara Energy International awarded a contract for a 7,500 CBM LPG newbuild, with delivery expected in Q4 2026, strengthening our LPG portfolio.

These achievements reflect the growing confidence placed in V.Ships globally and the dedication of our teams to deliver excellence across markets and sectors.

Way Point, the V. quarterly magazine is out.

The latest issue of Way Point focuses on what we can do as an industry to ensure a safe, sustainable and secure future for seafarers. It also includes a lovely cover image from our V.photo competition winner Jose Alejendro Varella Mendez.

The issue contains:

• A foreword from Allan Falkenberg, COO, Marine HR, who highlights the crewing challenges facing the maritime industry. (p2)
• Reflections of our June’s Day of the Seafarer which was marked across the V. sites globally. (p3)
• An interview with V.’s Captain Madhan and his experiences of the ship-to-shore programme. (p4-5)
• Matt Dunlop writes about navigating the human element of the ammonia fuel transition (p6-7)
  A look at growth in the offshore sector which is undergoing rapid growth and evolving complexity. (p8)
• Our Commercial Director and ESG specialist James Helliwell provides this view on the low freight rates and mounting geopolitical uncertainty facing the bulk carrier sector. (p9)
• An update from our V.Yachts team following the brand’s launch earlier this year. (p10)

We hope you enjoy this edition. Way Point will return in a new and improved format in September.

Cadets - DMMA Graduation

The DMMA College of Southern Philippines (Davao Merchant Marine Academy) held its graduation ceremony last month in Manila, marking a significant milestone for its cadets and for our global cadet development efforts.

This event is part of our expanding V.Cadets program—our global cadet initiative active in over 20 countries and supported by more than 80 partner universities and marine academies.

Between 2023 and 2025, over 520 cadets are projected to graduate across Deck, Engine, and Electrical disciplines. With strong operational hubs in India, the Philippines, Ukraine, and Europe.  The program manages the entire journey from university enrolment to officer rank. This includes sea-time planning, Performance Indicator (PI) test integration, and ShipSure-based tracking for a seamless cadet experience.

The program is designed to support long-term fleet needs, promote gender diversity, and build a sustainable leadership pipeline. By uniting cadets under the V.Cadets brand and closely aligning with educational partners, we can better match cadet supply with officer demand—reducing recruitment costs while investing in future maritime leaders.

Look out for the next batch as they come aboard!

Messman gains the June 2025 V.Group Safety Catch of the Month

We are pleased to recognise Messman Rohit Sudhakar Mohite of BELTIGER (Singapore/India Cluster) as the June 2025 Safety Catch of the Month recipient for his outstanding situational awareness and proactive intervention onboard. 

During routine operations, Rohit observed a crew member attempting to climb the stairs while carrying tools in both hands, an unsafe act that could have compromised the individual's balance and resulted in a fall or injury. Demonstrating quick judgment, he immediately stopped the crew member and helped, ensuring the tools were carried safely in one hand and allowing the crew member to maintain proper grip on the handrail. 

His swift action helped prevent a potential accident and reinforces our shared safety values of awareness, communication, and looking out for one another. This moment serves as a strong example of our commitment to: "See it. Own it. Act on it." 

Unsafe manual handling practices, such as climbing stairs while carrying tools with both hands can lead to serious injury. This incident underscores the importance of stopping unsafe actions immediately and supporting safe behaviours through teamwork. 

Visit the Learning Library for related Lessons Learnt videos and additional resources that support safety awareness and continual learning across the fleet. 

At V.Group, every team member is empowered—and expected—to raise safety observations. Whether you're reporting a hazard or stopping a job before it leads to harm, your action protects your colleagues and strengthens our safety culture. 

All eligible, non-anonymous entries are considered for the Safety Catch Award each month, with key criteria including:

• Active use of the V.(Crew) Connect App

• Demonstrated application of the Stop the Job policy

Let’s continue working together to build a safe and responsible work environment. Encourage your colleagues to participate in the Safety Catch programme—because safety isn’t just a requirement, it’s a collective mindset.

Congratulations once again to Messman Rohit!
Stay alert. Stay responsible. Stay safe.

New V.Approved Coveralls – A Step Forward in Safety & Comfort

At V., we are committed to continuously improving the safety and wellbeing of our seafarers.

One of the latest steps in this journey is the launch of the new V. approved MARINER boilersuit—a flame-resistant, anti-static coverall developed in partnership with PPE specialists STOP driven by the feedback gathered from the Safety Culture Survey (SCS).

The result is a high-quality, high-visibility orange boilersuit that enhances protection, promotes uniformity, and reflects our professional image across the fleet.

Designed for Everyone

In line with our efforts to create a more inclusive working environment onboard, we’ve also introduced the GRACE boilersuit—a female-fit version with the same safety specifications.

Tried, Tested, and Approved

Samples of the new coveralls were trialled during this year’s crew conferences, where seafarers had the chance to test them firsthand and provide feedback on safety, comfort, and quality.

What’s Next?

Building on the success of the coveralls, we’ve extended this centralised review to working boots. Stay tuned for updates on standardised footwear later this year.

Leading by Example

A special congratulations to the crews of MV Metro Ionian and MV Front Altair, among the first vessels to receive and wear the new V. approved coveralls. Their professional appearance is a strong reflection of the safety-first mindset and high standards we uphold across V.

Have you received your new overalls? We would love to see how they look. Email us your pictures at bulletin@vships.com or tag us on social media @vcare. 

HSSEQ Continuous Improvement Learning Series – “Hand vs Blower”

Switching off portable equipment before moving is essential, to avoid injuries occurring, even for short distances. You can lose balance or your grip and the unthinkable happens.

Unfortunately, this is what happened to one of our cadets, who picked up a portable heating blower, while it was operating and got their hand caught in the blower’s propeller. Fortunately, the injury wasn’t severe, but still required stitches. We caught up with the cadet once he returned home to find out what happened and what he learned from his experience, in order to share with others what to do if faced with a similar situation.

So what happened?

We meet Karl Takahupikang, an engine cadet on board one of our bulk carriers. Karl was assigned a task to de-ice the refrigerator store when he moved a portable heat blower. Now let's hear from Carl on what happened.

“I was given a job order to fix the icing of the provision store, and a portable blower was being used. I was about to move the portable blower a little bit, but I did not notice that the portable blower did not have a protective screen on it.”
“My hand got sucked on the suction side of the portable blower. I was rushed right away on the galley to wash my hand with a continuous running water. After that, officers were called of the incident, and I was told to go to the ship's hospital to check further my wound and treat the injury. I then had to visit a doctor ashore with the agent by order of the captain. During the hospital visit the doctor checked my wound and he said that it would need stitches for it to be heal faster.”

Lessons Learnt
We went back to Karl a few weeks after he had recovered to follow up on his reflections from the incident and what he learned and would share here.

“The key lesson that I have learned is to be mindful always of any hazards that could threaten our safety. Safety is our number one priority. The incident has taught me to be better and more competent seafarer in the near future.  My advice to my fellowship seafarers is to always check your surroundings if there are any hazards that would disrupt your safety while working.”

Complying to safety guidance will greatly increase the safety of everyone on board.

At V, we have tools in place to ensure safety is our number one objective. This includes following the V. Rules and the VMS. The VMS covers the requirements for safety management within Element nine. Take a moment to refresh your memory on the responsibilities and requirements stated within the VMS.

We can all get carried away whilst working in any environment and wrapped up in the heat of the moment. For this young cadet doing a task for the first time and trying to make a good impression it didn't work out as intended.

It's good to see that he has recovered and has joined his next vessel and will continue his voyage and career here with us at V.

Don't forget to stay safe and report anything that you see as being unsafe or dangerous.

A short film on this topic is available as part of the growing Continuous Improvement Learning Library available on Vimeo and linked below. 

We welcome your thoughts and any topics that you wish to share with your seafarer community to help improve safety and learning across V.

Email gary.henderson@v.group in our HSSEQ team with your experiences and ideas and your story could be featured in the learning library.

V.Care Wellbeing Webinar - Bullying and Harrassment

In support of the IMO’s Day of the Seafarer campaign (My harassment free ship), we invite you to watch this impactful webinar focused on raising awareness of bullying and harassment at sea.

We explore how V.’s positive workplace culture training is helping seafarers tackle bullying and harassment head-on, building safer and more respectful work environments.

We were also be joined by Shahed Samsuzzaman, Senior Fleet Superintendent from V.Ships UK, who will share a seafarer’s perspective on these issues and the importance of onboard support networks.

Why watch this Webinar?

• Raise your awareness of bullying and harassment in the maritime workplace
• Understand practical strategies to foster positive change on board
• Hear directly from senior seafarers about lived experiences and available support
• Contribute to a global movement for bullying and harassment free ships

V.CARE: Wellbeing Webinars

You can catch up with the rest of EAP orientation and previous webinars on the V Care website linked to your Crew Connect APP. 

Are you aware of all the wellbeing resources available to you?

Both the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and inspiration for your wellbeing can be found on the V.Care website, or available through the V.Crew Connect App.

You can also join the V.Care Facebook page or V.Care Instagram to hear from other V. seafarers and families about their journey with V.

V.Care Voyage of the Month: Sailing into Change with Women at Sea

Breaking Stereotypes & Supporting Women at Sea

In honor of the incredible resilience and contribution of women working at sea, wewanted to share this insightful article by The Mission to Seafarers: Women at Sea: Listening, Supporting and Breaking Stereotypes."

It highlights the real experiences of women in maritime roles—many of whom face unique challenges, including isolation, bias, and lack of tailored support. More importantly, it showcases how listening, understanding, and targeted support can drive meaningful change across industries.

Read the full article linked below.

At V., we’re proud to support a positive workplace culture that values inclusion, equity, and the power of listening. Whether you're ashore or at sea, our commitment to supporting diverse voices and breaking barriers is what drives how we lead, grow, and care for one another.

Let’s keep the conversation going—and keep challenging the stereotypes.

ShipMoney - Your Digital Payment Solution

Did You Know? You Don’t Need to Wait for Cash Onboard

With ShipMoney, your wages are paid directly to your own prepaid Visa card — giving you immediate access to your funds as soon as they’re released.

You can:

• Withdraw cash at ATMs
• Pay in stores or online
• Send money home via Wire Transfer, Western Union, or MoneyGram
• Provide a Companion Card to a trusted family member

👉 Remember: Your card works worldwide and stays active even while you’re off contract!

From Ship to Shore: V. Dual Career Path Development Practices

At V. we consistently adhere to the "talent-first" development strategy, providing seafarers with sustainable career futures through a robust internal recruitment mechanism. This month we meet Captain Xu recently completed successful transitions, to share their career growth stories.

"Hello everyone, I’m Xu Leng.

"Since 2019, I’ve served as Chief Officer on vessels managed by V.Ships. Thanks to the opportunities provided by the company and my relentless efforts, I was successfully promoted from Chief Officer to Captain in 2020. And this year, I’m honored to officially join V.Ships’ shore-based team. 

"From my personal growth journey, V.Ships is undoubtedly a fair and just platform for career advancement. Here, seniority alone doesn’t dictate progression—if you have the capability, sense of responsibility, and willingness to work hard, you will definitely earn recognition and opportunities for promotion.

"My transition from Chief Officer to Captain, and now to a shore-based role, has been made possible by the company’s equitable system. It provides a stage for every dreamer and go-getter to showcase their talents, allowing us to realise our professional value through merit. 

"Over these years working with V.Ships, I’ve deeply appreciated the company’s positive cultural atmosphere. This culture isn’t abstract, it’s reflected in every team collaboration, in everyone’s dedication and enthusiasm for their work, inspiring and motivating everyone involved.

"At the same time, the support from the shore-based team has left a strong impression on me. Whether facing technical challenges at sea or daily coordination tasks, the shore team always responds promptly and resolves issues efficiently, serving as our strongest backup. More importantly, the company’s care for crew members is meticulous, covering everything from daily life to career development, making us feel at home even while sailing far away.

"On V.Ships managed vessels, you’ll sense a unique cohesion and sense of belonging. Colleagues support and help each other, whether they’re seasoned seafarers or new team members. Everyone works together harmoniously, striving for both personal safety and the vessel’s safe operation. In short, V.Ships isn’t just a platform for professional growth—it’s a warm and empowering family. If you’re eager to develop your talents in a fair, professional, and caring environment, V.Ships is definitely the place to be."

Bring Your Sea Experience Ashore - Your Next Step Starts Here!

Are you currently sailing with V. and considering a move ashore?

We’re inviting our own talented seafarers to apply for future shore-based career opportunities across our global offices.

Your knowledge of life at sea is invaluable and we believe it belongs at the heart of our shore-based operations.

Whether you're passionate about vessel management, crew support, safety compliance, or training, your next role might be waiting just ashore.

The Ship to Shore Programme is designed to support and encourage V. seafarers who are ready to transition into shore-based careers.

Your sea experience is your strength — let’s bring it ashore!

If you’re passionate about continuing your maritime journey from a different vantage point, one where your expertise helps manage fleets, support operations, or train future seafarers, we invite you to apply.

We’re continuously looking to match sea-going talent with onshore roles.

Submit your profile below, and we’ll reach out when the right opportunity comes along.

Healthy Corner - Quick Stretches to Reduce Tension

Neck Stretch

• Bend your head forward and slightly to the right
• With your right hand, gently pull your head downward. You must feel a nice, easy stretch along the back left side of your neck
• Hold for about 30 seconds
• Switch sides and repeat

Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch

• Bring your left arm across your body and hold it with your right arm, either above or below the elbow
• Hold for about 30 seconds
• Switch arm and repeat

Quadriceps Stretch

• Stand near a stable wall or bulkhead for support
• Grasp your ankle and gently pull your heel up and back until you feel a stretch in the front of your thigh
• Tighten the abdominal muscles to prevent your stomach from sagging outward, and keep your knees close together
• Hold for about 30 seconds
• Switch legs and repeat

The stretches and movements included in this material are intended for general wellness and should be performed at your own comfort level. If you have any existing medical conditions, injuries, or concerns, please consult a healthcare professional before participating. Stop immediately if you feel any discomfort or pain.