At Pembroke Port, our people are at the heart of everything we do.
This time, we’re catching back up with Sharon Adams, who is Commercial Manager at Pembroke Port.
Sharon joined us in 2021 and plays a key role in driving the commercial success of the port, working closely with customers and partners to support growth and unlock new opportunities across our operations.
We caught up with Sharon to learn more about her career journey, her role, and what makes Pembroke Port such a special place to work…
Can you start by telling us your name and your role at Pembroke Port?
I’m Sharon and I’m the Commercial Manager at Pembroke Port. My role focuses on developing new business opportunities, building customer relationships, and supporting the Port’s commercial growth across a range of sectors.
What first brought you to Pembroke Port, and how long have you been part of the team?
I joined Pembroke Port in September 2021 and my background was actually in hospitality, so “selling” a port was never originally on my career list, but here we are!
People say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but I had to learn pretty quickly! Thankfully, I’ve been surrounded by some incredibly generous and knowledgeable people along the way. I think a few initially wondered why the Port had hired a hotelier to help grow the business, but I’d like to think it’s worked out pretty well so far.
Can you describe what your role involves?
My role is about connecting opportunities with capability. That includes speaking with customers, agents and project teams, identifying new markets, supporting business development, and helping ensure the Port is commercially ready for future opportunities.
A lot of my work also involves collaboration across the Port, working closely with marine, operations, engineering and finance teams to make sure we can safely and successfully deliver projects and vessel operations.
No two days at a port are the same - what does a “typical” day look like for you?
There probably isn’t a “typical” day and that’s one of the best parts of the job! One morning could involve customer meetings and commercial strategy discussions, while the afternoon might be focused on vessel enquiries, project planning or walking the Port with potential clients.
Some days are spent discussing future opportunities, while others involve supporting live operations or coordinating with teams to help deliver customer requirements.
Can you walk us through a moment when teamwork really made a difference at the Port?
One of the things that stands out most at Pembroke Port is how different teams come together when a complex operation is underway. There have been several occasions where commercial, marine and operations teams have had to work closely together to deliver a project or accommodate specialist cargoes.
Those moments really highlight the value of teamwork, everyone brings different expertise, but when it all comes together successfully, it’s incredibly rewarding.
What would you say is the best thing about working at Pembroke Port?
Definitely our team. There’s a strong sense of teamwork and pride in what we do, and no two projects are ever the same.
For me personally, it’s also a bit full circle. My dad worked offshore on the rigs when the North Sea industry was first developing, with some of that oil eventually coming into Milford Haven. Now, years later, I’m working surrounded by those industries and watching them evolve into the next generation of energy and fuels. That connection makes it feel quite special at times.
What’s one day or moment at Pembroke Port that’s really stuck with you?
There have been quite a few but seeing large-scale project cargo operations successfully come together is always memorable. Watching months of planning turn into a live operation with vessels arriving, cranes everywhere and teams working together is always really satisfying.
Which activity at the Port fascinates you the most, and why?
The marine side of the operation fascinates me most, particularly vessel movements and how much planning, coordination and expertise goes into safely bringing ships alongside.
From the outside it can look seamless, but there’s a huge amount happening behind the scenes between pilots, marine teams, operations, customer expectations and of course the weather to make everything run smoothly.
What’s the most interesting project, vessel, or cargo you’ve seen come through the Port?
Project cargo is always fascinating because every shipment is different. We’ve handled a wide variety of specialist cargoes and engineering equipment over the years, and those operations often require detailed planning and collaboration across the Port.
What do you think the future holds for Pembroke Port? Anything you’re particularly excited about?
I think Pembroke Port has a really exciting future ahead. The Port is well positioned to support a wide range of industries and projects, and there’s a real opportunity to continue building on the strong foundations already in place.
What excites me most is being part of that growth and helping develop new opportunities for the Port and the community of Pembroke Dock.
What skills or strengths do you think are most important for working in a port environment?
This business is built and will grow further on relationships both internally and externally. Communication and teamwork are essential because ports rely on so many different departments and stakeholders working together safely and efficiently.
Do you have any special skills, hobbies, or hidden talents outside of work?
Outside of work I enjoy time with my two dogs, gardening, cooking and enjoying everything Pembrokeshire has to offer.
Finally, if you could describe Pembroke Port in three words, what would they be?
Flexible, Reliable & Ambitious