Robert Bately

Background

About Robert Bately

Having begun my adventure in shipping in 2002, I have worked for over 20 years in the Ferry industry, sailing between the Continent and the United Kingdom. For the last 20 years I am proud to be a member of the team, catering to guests as part of the 'World's Leading Ferry Operator' DFDS. My background is that of a professional chef, where I worked my way up through the ranks to Sous Chef and then Head Chef. Along the way the key skill sets I have acquired from these roles are that of discipline, timeliness and an attention for detail. Additionally, I have trained and developed many catering seafarers during my career and I am known to be a results driven, professional and high-achieving leader. I am passionate about personal development and continuous improvement. In 2016 I demonstrated my ability to adapt and apply my skills in a different environment, by moving to a customer facing role front of house, in the Onboard Services Department to work as Business Leader. The Onboard Services Department focuses on customer relationship management by ensuring that everyone will have the best experience onboard the DFDS ferries. As the leader of my team, I make sure that my people are equipped to be able to assist our customers. In late 2018 I changed routes, from the Dover - Dunkerque to Amsterdam - Newcastle, in a new position as Commercial Head. I am now on an adventure in the cruise ferry industry and keen to keep developing myself and my team as we grow together. From November 2020 until April 2021 I was seconded to be part of the team setting up and running the newly established Rosslare to Dunkerque route. From November 2023 until February 2024 I was seconded to work as Commercial Experience Manager in our Dover office. This was a role involving management of onboard managers of the Channel vessels as well as collaboration with shore based functions to support the onboard teams.