Smooth Sailing: Robbie’s Success with Stena Line
- Jun 17
- 3 min read
At Môn Communities Forward, we know that the path to employment is rarely a straight line. Sometimes, it takes a little flexibility, a lot of proactive planning, and the right support system to get the wheels turning.
Robbie’s story is a fantastic example of how our Communities for Work plus programme helps individuals navigate career transitions smoothly, even when life takes them halfway across the world.
📌 Key Takeaways from Robbie's Journey
For our funders and community members alike, Robbie’s success highlights exactly why tailored employability support is so vital.
Proactivity Minimises Unemployment
By contacting Môn CF before taking time out to travel, Robbie eliminated the typical post-holiday delay and landed a job within just a month and a half of returning.
Target Skills Training Boosts Value
Completing customer service training specifically geared towards retail and hospitality made Robbie an immediate standout applicant.
Preparation Trumps Interview Anxiety
Specialised prep for a high-volume, "open-day" interview environment gave Robbie the competitive edge he needed to succeed.
🗺️ The Journey: From Anglesey to Thailand and Back
Forward Planning (Pre-Christmas)
Just before Christmas, Robbie came to Môn CF after finishing his seasonal employment with Haven Holidays. He was planning a dream trip to travel around Thailand until late February, but he did not want to lose momentum.
Instead of waiting until he got back to start his job search from scratch, Robbie met with a Môn CF mentor to map out his goals early. He knew he wanted to work in hospitality and retail, with a strong focus on customer care and satisfaction.
Long-Distance Progress (January – February)
While Robbie was away, the work did not stop. He sent over the necessary details for his mentor to build a brand-new, professional CV. To add real value to his future applications, Robbie also quickly completed and passed an online high-speed training course in customer service skills while managing his travel schedule. When he landed back in the UK, his professional toolkit was fully packed.
Interview Ready (March – April)
Once home, Robbie and his mentor immediately began applying for roles, including a coveted Onboard Sales and Service Assistant position with Stena Line.
When Stena Line invited him to an interview, Môn CF shifted focus to intensive interview preparation. Robbie’s mentor coached him on what to expect from a large-scale "open interview" format at the Trearddur Bay Hotel, ensuring he researched the company thoroughly so he could confidently showcase his skills.
The Result: A Career with Room to Grow
Robbie smashed the interview and was offered the role! After passing his maritime medical examination, he officially stepped on board on 1st May with a flexible contract guaranteeing at least 16 hours a week. Robbie is absolutely thrilled to be working with Stena Line and is already aiming for internal progression now that he has his foot in the door.
💬 From the Mentor's Desk
"It was incredibly refreshing to work with Robbie. Because he came to see Môn CF before he went away, he was able to clearly explain his goals. When he returned, it was straight into applying for roles. Due to his proactive approach, it took him just a month and a half to find a fantastic job that he is happy with and can see himself in for the long haul. Robbie mentioned to me that without the new CV, the completed course, and the interview prep, he isn't 100% sure he would have been successful. He deserves huge credit for his dedication!"
🤝 What Support Can You Expect from us?
If you are looking for work, wondering what your next step is, or trying to transition between seasonal roles, Môn CF provides a clear, structured roadmap. Here is what the journey looks like when you sign up:
🚀 Ready to take your next step? 🚀
Whether you are currently out of work, finishing a seasonal contract, or looking to upskill for a better future, Môn CF is here to support you every step of the way. Our funded programmes ensure you have the tools, training, and confidence to land the right role.
