MJM Marine is an award-winning company with over 30 years experience in the marine and land-based refurbishment and fit out sectors. This week we’re meeting the lovely Fiona Nevin – their Head of Global Business Development. 😊

Hi Fiona! First of all, can you tell me about your role with MJM Marine?
I joined the company as HGBD in November 2021. My role is very much relationship focused. I work closely with current clients as they move forward from the pandemic and I also develop new relationships, introducing our outfitting experience, partnerships and our carpet and upholstery services.

What has been your favourite project to work on?
We can’t have favourites! It is, however, fair to say that MJM do work with some of the industry’s most progressive and exciting cruise brands.

Do you have an industry insight you can share about the sector you work in?
I have found Marine to be exciting and fast-moving. It’s great to see new faces coming into the industry. Our Navigate programme invests in the potential of young people, providing pathways for them to join the business and progress in their career.

What are you most proud of about your company?
The cruise sector was undoubtedly one of the most impacted by the Covid pandemic. I joined MJM just as the industry was getting back on its feet. Over the pandemic, we developed new partnerships with VYV Antimicrobial lighting and Ilimex Air Purification systems. We also launched our new carpet and upholstery division. The team at MJM have worked hard to add value to our customers and promote a safe environment for their passengers.

What are you looking to get from your membership with CSI+?
I’m keen to build my network, increase awareness of the MJM Marine brand, learn about new industry trends and forge trusted relationships.

What do you love about the Cruise Interiors industry?
I have worked in outfitting most of my career, however I find the cruise interiors industry a very welcoming and helpful group of people. I’m looking forward to building more trusted connections in the months ahead.

What are you looking forward to this year?
I’m looking forward to travel, making new connections and of course my first CSI Miami show. I’m hoping for it to be a healthy and successful year at MJM for the team and for our industry.

Let’s get to know Fiona even better…

So Fiona, how do you like to spend your time when you’re not working?
I mostly spend my spare time with family and friends. We love going on weekends away. I’m looking forward to more travel now that restrictions have been lifted. I also enjoy walking. I live in a seaside town. Over lockdown I found lots of new routes.

Can you tell us a fun fact about yourself… Any hidden talents?!
I have always been quite arty and enjoy painting when I can make the time. Prior to lockdown I was involved with a local club. I hope to do a pottery or textiles course in the future.

What was your first ever job?! How did you get into the industry?
My first ever paid job was in an ice cream shop when I was 14 but my first ‘grown up’ job was in the marketing department of a fit-out company. The opportunity came up and I gave it a go. I’ve worked in both main construction and outfitting companies since. No two days are ever the same and I enjoy having the variety of balancing existing and new customer relationships.

What’s your favourite genre of music? 🎸
I have quite a varied taste in music. Some of my favourites are U2, James, Blondie, Joy Division, Coldplay, Snow Patrol, Damien Rice, The Corrs, Texas, Ludovico Einaudi……the list goes on!

If we went for dinner and you could choose any 3 course meal and a drink, what are you having?!
Starter – French Onion Soup, Main –Seafood Platter, Dessert – Irish Coffee. Red Wine. I love to cook and entertain at home but also enjoy eating out with family and friends. I look forward to discovering new restaurants particularly when traveling and always have a growing list of places I want to try.

What are your favourite films and books?
I can’t decide on one favourite movie! It’s between The Green Book or Scent of a Woman! I quite enjoy audio books, mostly business related or an autobiography. My last was Michelle Obamas Becoming. I must be one of the few who still enjoy reading Sunday newspapers with coffee!

– Thank you very much Fiona and MJM Marine for being valued members of the CSI+ Community! It’s been great getting to know you a little better. I think we’ll have to go for a seaside walk, with a glass of wine listening to Blondie now!

You can connect with Fiona on LinkedIn here. And check out MJM Marine’s website here.