“Great opportunities for professional growth in Cyprus’ globally leading shipping cluster”

Having also worked in the UK and Greece, Ramona Lavkinaite, MHR Process and Systems Lead, OSM Ship Management Cyprus Ltd, explains what brought her to the island from her native Latvia.

Describe your current job in Cyprus.

In my current role, I am involved with the implementation of a new crew management system, alignment of operational processes and assessment of workflow procedures efficiency. I focus on process excellence to ensure ultimate support for business functions and client requirements.

What led to your move from Latvia to Cyprus?

After having spent a gap year in Cyprus during my studies, I was willing to start my professional career in Cyprus. I was attracted by the warm climate, more relaxed pace of life and the opportunities offered by a well-developed business scene in Cyprus.

How does the professional environment in Cyprus differ from that in Latvia?

Cyprus offers a multicultural working environment with a diverse workforce, due to a high number of expats, while the workforce in Latvia is more homogeneous. Internet speeds and digitalized government services in Latvia often allow a faster pace of many business processes compared to Cyprus. Latvians tend to be reserved in their business dealings and may take time to build trust with new partners or colleagues, while Cyprus has a more laid-back business culture with a strong emphasis on personal relationships.

How do you view the business environment in your particular industry?

The attractive Tonnage Tax scheme, the time zone for global business and access to a well-skilled workforce make Cyprus a preferred location for shipping companies, many of which have chosen Cyprus as their regional headquarters. In Cyprus, maritime is one of the most important sectors of the economy, with a globally leading shipping cluster that offers great opportunities for professional growth and long-term careers.

How do you find working and living in Cyprus? How easily did you adapt to life here?

One of the positive things about Cyprus is the work/life balance that is easy to achieve as commute times are short and all necessary services are available in close proximity. The warm climate allows for enjoying outdoor hobbies and people in Cyprus are friendly and welcoming. Coming from Latvia where punctuality is highly valued, it was difficult to get used to the more laid-back way of life in Cyprus but I adapted fast!

• Country of origin: Latvia
• Job Title: MHR Process and Systems Lead
• Company: OSM Ship Management Cyprus Ltd
• Office Location: Limassol
• Time in Cyprus: 13 years
• Other countries she has lived/worked in: Latvia, UK, Greece
• Favourite restaurant in Cyprus: Oshi Asian Interactive Restaurant, Limassol
• Favourite bar in Cyprus: Madame, Limassol
• Activities she enjoys in Cyprus: Hiking, swimming, camping

This interview first appeared in the March issue of GOLD magazine. Click here to view it.