As Managing Director of waste management specialist Top Glory Marine Service, Cathrin Prikker is committed to greater environmental protection. As President of WISTA Germany, she is also dedicated to promoting women in the maritime industry.
How did you first become involved in the shipping industry?
Cathrin Prikker: Ever since my first internship at a shipping company, I have been fascinated by the international flair of the industry. From that moment on, I knew that I wanted to work in shipping.
What does your daily work look like?
Prikker: My daily work takes place between our offices in Leer and Hamburg – a variation that I greatly appreciate. As the managing director of a small team of 19 people, my role covers almost all areas of the business. Together with my colleague Silke Fehr, who founded the company, we work hand in hand and complement each other perfectly to tackle the diverse challenges we face.
My main focus is on business development and sales. I work on increasing TGM’s visibility, acquiring new customers, and continuously expanding our network of disposal companies. Additionally, I am also responsible for key topics such as HSEQ (Health, Safety, Environment, and Quality) and HR. The versatility of my tasks ensures that no two days are alike – and it is precisely this dynamic nature that I find so fulfilling.
How did you get involved with WISTA?
Prikker: During my dual study program, I had the opportunity to gain my first insights into the WISTA world. Later, during my professional career in Hamburg, I officially became a member.
I highly value engaging in networks, as they not only provide an excellent platform for professional exchange and personal development but also offer the opportunity to share experiences and learn from others. To me, such networks are incredibly valuable for growing together with like-minded individuals. Since last year, I have been serving as President of WISTA Germany and I am excited to help shape the association and increase its visibility.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Prikker: In my free time, I enjoy gardening and sports, as both allow me to clear my mind and recharge my energy. Not every workday ends with visible success, so I appreciate being able to create something with my own hands in the garden.
Additionally, I love to travel and explore the culinary diversity of different countries – it always inspires me anew.
What does “diversity in the workplace” mean to you?
Prikker: It is about creating an environment where everyone has the opportunity to contribute their unique strengths and ideas. Differences – whether in terms of age, gender, background, or working style – are, in my view, a clear asset that fosters creativity, innovation, and open collaboration.
A diverse corporate culture not only leads to strong and measurable results but also strengthens the growth and development of all team members. Diversity should not be a mere goal but an actively lived reality.
How do you contribute to diversity?
Prikker: As a leader, I have the opportunity to actively shape the diversity of our team. When selecting new team members, our focus is on skills and team compatibility, not on factors like age, gender, or background. We greatly benefit from this diversity.
Whether young or experienced, male or female, from different cultural backgrounds, working full-time or part-time – everyone brings their own perspectives and strengths. For example, we learn from the experience of senior colleagues just as much as we benefit from the time management skills of our part-time employees. This varietyallows us to continuously evolve.
What more can maritime companies do to foster diversity?
Prikker: The maritime industry has made significant progress in recent years in terms of diversity, but there is still a long way to go. One of the most important aspects is the role model effect of companies: When businesses and their leadership teams embrace diversity, it sends a strong signal and promotes a culture of openness and inclusion.
Another key factor is the implementation of flexible work models. Options such as part-time work, remote work, and flexible hours not only open doors for a more diverse talent pool but also help retain experienced professionalsin the industry. However, there is still significant room for improvement in this area.
Interview: Anna Wroblewski
About Top Glory Marine Service
- Founded in 2013, Top Glory Marine Service (TGM) operates with offices in Hamburg and Leer.
- Specializing in waste management for the shipping industry, TGM arranges waste disposal services for all MARPOL-relevant materials worldwide.
- The company focuses on efficient and environmentally responsible waste disposal while ensuring cost transparency and cost efficiency.
- Customers benefit from digital tracking of services and waste treatment processes through the TGM Enviro Fleet Cloud.
About Cathrin Prikker
- Born in 1991 in Leer
- Completed a dual study program at the shipping company Hermann Buss
- Managing Director at TGM since 2023
- WISTA member since 2019
- President of WISTA Germany since June 2024
HANSA and WISTA Empower Women in the Maritime Industry
As part of an exclusive partnership with the German branch of the Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association, HANSA regularly features a portrait of a member of WISTA Germany e.V.
