Hi CSI+ Members! Thanks for joining us again for another meet the member interview. This time we are joined by Naomi Cooper, Director of Projects at Trimline Ltd | Award-winning Marine Interior Outfitter.
Let’s dive right in!
What do you do at Trimline Ltd and in what circumstances would I come to you for something?
As the Director of Projects at Trimline, my main responsibility is to oversee the coordination and management of our outfitting projects. From the initial planning stages to the final implementation, I work closely with our clients and project team to ensure a smooth and successful project delivery.
Once the team is onboard carrying out the project, I take on the overall responsibility for overseeing the entire refit process, ensuring that all aspects of the project are running smoothly and according to plan. I closely monitor the progress, manage any challenges that may arise, and ensure that the project stays on schedule and within budget.
What has been your favourite project to work on? Cruise work preferred!
The most memorable and fulfilling projects I’ve had the pleasure of working on have been the large-scale cruise ship interior rebrands with diverse technical elements. What made these projects truly special was the exceptional team spirit and camaraderie on board. Despite the inherent challenges, the Trimline team united, working seamlessly together to overcome obstacles and ensure a successful outcome for our clients.
The shared sense of purpose and collaboration is always incredibly rewarding to witness. Seeing the remarkable transformation of the ship’s interior spaces as each technical aspect was expertly handled fills me with a tremendous sense of achievement. It’s truly fulfilling to know that our collective efforts have resulted in an amazing end product that exceeds our clients’ expectations.
What behaviour or personality trait do you most attribute your success to, and why?
The behaviour and personality trait I attribute my success to the most is resilience. In the marine interior outfitting industry, challenges and obstacles are inevitable. Being resilient allows me to face these challenges head-on, adapt to unexpected situations, and find innovative solutions. It helps me maintain a positive mindset and persevere even in the face of adversity, ensuring the success of our projects.
Additionally, being a team player and team builder is vital. As a leader, I believe in fostering a collaborative environment where every team member’s skills and expertise are recognised and utilised for the benefit of the entire team. I prioritise open and honest communication, taking responsibility for the work I do and encouraging the same accountability within the project management team. By creating a supportive and cohesive team, we can overcome challenges together and deliver exceptional results.
When building my team, I seek individuals who possess similar attributes. I value team members who recognise and leverage each other’s skill sets, prioritise the well-being of their colleagues, and demonstrate mental resilience to navigate through demanding projects. Organisational skills, clear and concise communication, and a commitment to excellent client communication are also qualities I prioritise in my team members. By fostering a team with these attributes, we can tackle projects efficiently and successfully, exceeding client expectations.
Could you share the most significant obstacle you have faced in your career so far, particularly in cruise work?
One of the most significant obstacles I have faced in my career is navigating the male-dominated project management area of marine outfitting. As one of the few females in this field, I’m incredibly proud of my accomplishments and the progress I have witnessed in terms of gender diversity since joining Trimline 12 years ago.
While the industry still has a long way to go in terms of gender balance, I feel immense pride in reaching my role as a Director of Projects. Being able to contribute my expertise, leadership, and problem-solving skills to the marine outfitting projects is a testament to my dedication and capabilities.
I firmly believe that diverse perspectives and experiences lead to stronger teams and better outcomes. By embracing the unique contributions that women bring to the table, we can foster a more inclusive and dynamic industry. It is my hope that more women will be encouraged to pursue careers in marine outfitting project management, paving the way for increased representation and continued growth in the future.
What goals have you met so far in 2023? Or, what goals/milestones are you working to meet this year?
In 2023, I have successfully achieved one of my major goals, which was leading our largest project post-pandemic to a highly successful outcome. This achievement not only contributes to the growth and success of Trimline but also plays a significant role in my personal development. Being able to navigate and oversee this project with a high level of expertise has been a crucial milestone for me.
Another important goal I’m currently working towards is continuing to develop the newer members of my team. As we expand, I aim to further empower them to take on greater challenges and responsibilities. I want them to feel confident and supported while working on-site, knowing that they have the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed. By providing coaching, structure, and clear channels for assistance, I aim to create an environment where they never feel alone or overwhelmed. This approach will enable me to step away from day-to-day project management tasks and focus more on providing the support and guidance they need for their personal and career growth.
Thanks for your time Naomi Cooper! You can find out more about all the exciting work going on at Trimline here.
