8 Benefits of having Millennials and Gen Z in your marine business

As the global workforce continues to evolve, businesses across all industries recognise the increasing importance of recruiting and retaining Millennials and Gen Z employees. By 2025, Millennials and Gen Z are projected to make up 75% of the global workforce, representing a significant demographic no industry, including marine, can afford to overlook. In a recent discussion, James Ward, CEO and Founder of Marine Resources, highlights why these generations are critical to the future of the marine industry and how businesses must adapt to meet their expectations.

1. Technologically savvy and innovative

One of the defining characteristics of Millennials and Gen Z is their ability to use technology. They have grown up in the digital age, making them proficient with digital tools, social media, and online platforms. This expertise can be a game-changer in an industry such as marine, which has traditionally been slower to adopt new technologies. James Ward emphasises that Millennials and Gen Z can drive innovation within companies, helping them stay competitive. “Their ease with tech enables them to quickly adapt to new systems, platforms, and tools, keeping businesses at the forefront of technological advancement”, he observes. “Having them in your team means you can leverage their natural ability to innovate and integrate modern tools into your operations, enhancing productivity and staying ahead of the competition.”

2. Adaptable and quick-thinking

Millennials and Gen Z have grown up in a rapidly changing world, which has made them incredibly adaptable. They are comfortable with fast-paced environments and are quick thinkers, able to make decisions efficiently and pivot when necessary. For example, in the marine industry, where dynamic situations often arise, having a versatile workforce that thrives on change is invaluable. James notes that all these factors are essential for businesses that want to stay agile in today’s market. As marine organisations face evolving challenges and market demands, Millennials and Gen Z can provide the flexibility and resilience needed to navigate uncertain times.

3. Champions of diversity and inclusion

Diversity and inclusion are priorities for Millennials and Gen Z. They value diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplaces and are vocal advocates for creating environments where everyone can flourish. James points out, “Research shows that diverse workplaces outperform non-diverse ones in terms of innovation, decision-making, and overall performance.”  By bringing Millennials and Gen Z into an organisation, you are not only evolving a culture of inclusivity but also tapping into their commitment to promoting diversity as a key business strategy. They can help businesses become more in tune with modern values and consumer expectations, ultimately contributing to a more positive company culture and brand reputation.

4. Strong social conscience

Millennials and Gen Z have a deep-rooted social conscience, placing a high value on corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability. They want to work for companies that are making a positive impact on the world, and they are willing to champion initiatives that focus on environmental accountability, ethical business practices, and community involvement. In the marine industry, where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, having a workforce that is passionate about CSR can be a major asset. These generations can help drive sustainability projects, contribute to eco-friendly innovations, and enhance a company's reputation for responsible business practices. James Ward recognises all this, adding, “They are also excellent at boosting brand loyalty, as they resonate with customers who share their values.”

5. Purpose-driven and entrepreneurial

One of the key motivators for Millennials and Gen Z in the workplace is purpose. For them, a career is not simply earning a paycheck; they want to work for organisations that have a clear mission and align with their values. They have a strong entrepreneurial spirit and thrive in environments where they feel their work has meaning.

This focus on purpose can lead to higher employee engagement, productivity, and business retention. You will have a more motivated and loyal workforce if you can communicate a strong sense of purpose and provide opportunities for these generations to contribute meaningfully. Moreover, their entrepreneurial mindset makes them natural problem-solvers, constantly seeking innovative ways to improve processes that drive the company forward.

6. Collaborative and team-oriented 

Collaboration and teamwork are at the heart of how Millennials and Gen Z prefer to work. They value open communication, transparency, and the opportunity to work closely with others to achieve shared goals. James notes that these generations are excellent at encouraging collaboration within teams and promoting a culture of teamwork.

A cohesive and cross-functional team is essential to deliver seamless operations within the marine industry. Therefore if businesses open up opportunities and drive innovation across departments, it creates an attractive environment where Millennials and Gen Z feel heard and valued. 

7. Data-driven decision making

Having grown up in a world dominated by data, this is a group accustomed to using data-driven insights to inform their decisions. They are analytical thinkers who understand how to leverage data to optimise strategies and operations. In the marine industry, data is becoming increasingly critical for things like operational efficiency and sustainability, so this is an invaluable skill set.

James comments, “We know that this demographic is passionate about making data-driven decisions, allowing them to provide businesses with more efficient approaches to strategy and operations. Whether optimising supply chains or improving customer experiences, Millennials and Gen Z can help companies make smarter, more informed decisions.”

8. Focus on work-life balance

Work-life balance is a top priority. Unlike previous generations, who may have been willing to sacrifice personal time for professional success, these generations strongly emphasise maintaining a healthy balance between work and life. “Focusing on a good work-life balance can contribute to better employee retention, which is especially important in industries like marine, where recruitment is becoming increasingly difficult.” James highlights. “When companies promote a healthy work-life balance, they attract top talent and retain their best employees. Offering flexible working arrangements, remote options, and wellness programmes are just a few ways businesses can create a more attractive environment for Millennials and Gen Z.”. 

As a collective reshaping the workforce, businesses that want to stay competitive must adapt to their values, skills, and expectations. James adds, “These generations bring a wealth of technological expertise, adaptability, diversity, creativity, and a strong sense of purpose to the table. By embracing their contributions, businesses can thrive in today’s fast-changing market and build a prepared workforce for the future.”


Note: More info on the Young Professionals Club.