News: Martek's growth looks set to continue

Martek Marine has worked with experts at the Sheffield Hallam University to enable the new management team to continue the Rotherham company's rapid expansion.

The Manvers company is the world leader in safety and environmental monitoring equipment for commercial ships.

Martek began in 2000 with three employees and £6,000 in start up capital in the smallest unit in the RiDO-run Century Business Centre. Martek now employs over 50 people at purpose built premises in Adwick Park and their products can be found in vessels across the globe.

Earlier this year, previous managing director, Paul Luen became the company's chief executive officer to allow the company to make even greater use of Paul's entrepreneurial skills to deliver new opportunities and focus on strategy.

Paul approached the Centre for Individual and Organisational Development at the Sheffield Hallam University to help enhance leadership capability in his new management team.

The centre put together a plan specifically tailored to the needs of Martek, including a 360 degree questionnaire, facilitating monthly management team meetings, and skills development for the senior team in coaching, giving and receiving feedback and goalsetting.

By speaking to all of Martek Marine's employees, experts gained a comprehensive picture of the culture within the organisation, and were able to make more meaningful recommendations.

Amanda Drewett from the Centre for Individual and Organisational Development said: "Working with Martek Marine has been rewarding, as it has enabled me to speak to a number of people within the organisation on a project which will support a shift in culture.

"We have developed a strong relationship with Paul Luen, who is open and honest with his feedback - which I have really valued. Having full support and input from the client is key to a successful project."

Paul added: "We have already seen significant benefits from the work carried out. We have identified key behaviours which we are now beginning to recognise and celebrate. We have seen an increase in peer to peer challenge, trust and transparency among the senior team. The longer term benefits will be more apparent towards the end of the year.

"Working with Sheffield Hallam has been refreshing. They are commercially focused and work at the pace of an SME. Our relationship is based on mutual trust and respect."

Martek website
Sheffield Hallam University website

Images: martek-marine.com