Women who lead: A conversation with MIMO Connect co‑founder Nicci Robertson

In celebration of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, we’re shining a spotlight on the women who help shape MIMO Connect from the inside out. We sat down with our co‑founder, Nicci Robertson, whose journey from competitive sailor to industry‑respected recruiter is as inspiring as it is authentic.

Nicci’s story is one of adventure, resilience, and deep commitment ,to her family, to the maritime community, and to the people she supports every day.

In this interview, she shares her path into the industry, the values that drive her, and the passion she brings to building meaningful connections across the superyacht and AVIT world.

Tell me a bit about yourself?

I grew up in South Africa, leading an adventurous outdoor and sporty life. I’m married to Jason and we have 3 energetic kids. In my spare time you’ll find me cycling or running in the beautiful New Forest (where we now live) and doing activities with the family quite often in our motorhome exploring new places and testing new connectivity solutions.

How did you get into the maritime industry and was your last role similar to what you are doing now?

I’ve sailed competitively from a young age so was naturally drawn to the sea. After working in London for many years, we decided to take a year out and go travelling. Very different to most people entering the industry, Jason and I were married for 2 years when we joined the industry. I was working as a stewardess whilst onboard, I’m now recruiting ETOs and AVIT officers so although still working in the industry (shore-based), it’s a very different role to what I was doing onboard.

What qualities do you value in colleagues or team members?

I love the fact that we are a real team, we spend a lot of time together not only working but also socially, and no one feels like anyone is better or above anyone else. The importance of communicating openly with one another is key. It takes a strong team working together all pulling in one direction to make the headway a company needs to succeed. It’s truly incredible being part of a solid team that all align with the company values and ethics of Honesty, Integrity and Transparency.

How do you foster teamwork and collaboration?

Communication is imperative for team work to be effective. By assigning various tasks and responsibilities enables individuals to feel part of the team and to be accountable for the valued work they do.

Are there any professional groups or associations you’re part of?

We attend SAMBA (Society of Aviation and Marine Business Advisors) events.

Facebook Groups: ETO / AVIT Forum; Yacht ETO AVIT Jobs; ETO / AVIT Suppliers; Starlink for yachts and maritime Superyacht Charities Ambassadors.

What are some memorable connections or partnerships you’ve formed since being part of MIMO Connect?

There are so many but certainly the Grassroots football – sponsoring a match and training kit for each player from age 6 -18. There are almost 600 players in the Hythe and Dibden Youth Football team now. We have and continue to build solid relationships there.

The Superyacht Charity (SYC) support that we do is also very close to our hearts. We’ve supported SYC for the past five years at various events throughout the year. Charity support and giving back is at the forefront of MIMO’s culture. Our goals and aspirations as a company are to provide the best and seamless global connectivity solutions but not only that, we want to look after the planet and give back where and when we can.

It’s a privilege to meet and connect with our ETO / AVIT candidates in person at various events we attend. Lovely to hear their stories – in fact the one candidate I placed met his future wife onboard the yacht I placed him, and they’re now happily married.

What do you love doing the most in your work?

Making a positive difference and helping people in need. Often my role as a recruiter is not only finding jobs for candidates but mentoring a lot of them. Jason and I can relate to them in so many ways as I’ve been that wife at home with three small kids whilst Jason was at sea for several months at a time. It’s quite humbling to know that our understanding goes along way for these guys at sea and their families because we know just how difficult it can be being away from your family for long periods. Just being that listening ear and reassuring voice really helps me to feel like I make a difference.

What’s one thing you’ve learned recently that has impacted your work?

I’m still not great at it but time management… Having to juggle family life and work commitments is a constant challenge but making time for the family and ensuring I switch off from work for a couple of hours in the evening is imperative for a healthy work / life balance.

What skills or expertise do you bring to the team?

I am more of a listener and like to hear everyone’s thoughts and ideas before planning. At the same time, I am a logical thinker and can be a good sounding board. I’m very goal-orientated and competitive by nature. I like to see progress so am always on the lookout as to how we can improve or gain more insight and add value to the field we work in.

What is one thing you’re passionate about that you don’t get to do enough?

Spending quality time with the family. Getting out and about more – exploring new places (on my bike where possible), learning new cultures.

What’s the furthest away from home you’ve ever been?

It depends if home is South Africa, UK, Spain…. I would say Australia and New Zealand.

What seemingly tiny thing are you especially grateful for?

My faith and my family.

What about the future excites you?

Watching our kids grow and learn – excited to see where the future takes them – possibly part of the MIMO team, who knows!

With the amazing team we have, I’m excited to see Mimo and Robertson ETOs grow from strength to strength.

What’s your favourite song, and why?

Tough one but have to say I love a bit of Johnny Clegg – reminds me of home (the South African one)!

And some good old praise and worship.

If you were on an island, which three things would you want with you?

My phone (it has lots of apps, most importantly for me the Bible) This means I’ll need connectivity so a Starlink please and my family (that counts as one, doesn’t it?)

Such an adventure!

Nicci Robertson, co founder of MIMO Connect