THE INSIDE JOB
Mihai Alexandru talks to Frances and Michael Howorth and explains why he is hunting for that perfect Chief Steward position
What made you want to join the industry? I was at a turning point in my life. I had spent more than 12 years working in top level hotels and cruise lines, and decided that it was time for new challenges. I wanted to utilise my skills and experience and it seemed to me at the time that working on superyachts would be perfect for my future.
Who is helping you find your next dream job and why did you choose them to help you? I’ve only ever worked with the more professional recruitment agencies. The Crew Network, with their offices positioned in key yachting hot spots Antibes, Viareggio and Fort Lauderdale are particularly helpful and their team of specialists is well versed in the skills needed to operate a yacht at the highest levels of luxury. I also think they recognise and respect my reputation as a true industry professional.
Can you describe your perfect dream job? Eventually I would like to work up to a position within a fleet of superyachts were I might become Fleet Interior Manager.
Where would you like your next yacht to be based and why?
Anywhere is fine by me, but I love the South of France. Given that my daughter lives there as well, Nice would be my first choice.
What do you most like about your last job? On board my last yacht I had the great pleasure to work for a Captain who trusted me and allowed me to get involved not just with the management of the interior but he also allowed me to handle most of the yacht administrative accounting and paperwork which I really enjoyed.
And least like? Changing home port almost every year.
What is your favourite restaurant or bar in the Mediterranean and why is it special? Ristorante Quattro Passi overlooking the Bay of Nerano on the Amalfi coast is my all time favourite. The quality of the food, the wine selection, the location are all just perfect. But when you factor in the talents of the Owner/Chef Antonio Mellino you get a restaurant that is nothing short of amazing!
34 | AUTUMN 2018 | ONBOARD
If you could recommend a Mediterranean catering service to another yacht who would it be?
I would definitely recommend Adams & Adams. They are really good at offering complete catering and event management solutions from concept to table. They listen to what I want done and then tailor make the event to suit my brief, budget and location.
If you were not working in superyachting what you be doing to earn a living? I know that I do have choices, but if I had to leave this industry I would almost certainly end up working inside the luxury hotel industry ashore.
What is the most funny superyacht experience you can recall? Last year we organised a ‘Sea Olympic Games’ for our charter guests. All the crew joined in, the guests loved it and we never laughed so hard. I will always remember it.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of working in the industry? Be open minded, listen and follow instructions, work hard and never get involved in gossiping. I would add that it is important to always wear a smile and have fun while no guests are on board.
What tip for doing your job better are you willing to share?
Always try to anticipate what the guest will need next and always strive to do your best and exceed their expectations.
Do you have a pet hate and if so what is it? I am a very sociable person and there is almost nothing that upsets me.
If you could wave a magic wand and transport yourself to anywhere in the world right now where would that be and why? Nice, France. I would like to spend as much time with my daughter as possible.
What’s the most curious request you’ve had over the years?
We had a big party on board, and many more guests arrived on board than were initially expected. Rather than disappoint them we needed to go shopping and buy in extra
supplies. The problem was it was 3am so I decided to ask our agent to open up all the nearby shops and restaurants and he did!
What is your most memorable moment in your career to date?
The moment that I joined my first superyacht Lady Moura in May 2007 during the Cannes Film Festival. What makes you stand out as a potential superyacht Chief Steward? I am a confident, positive and very determined individual. I am a strong team builder and player. I know I have a great sense of humour and I always remain calm during potentially stressful situations. I thrive on good communication skills, organisation and diplomacy.
QUICK FIRE
Are you a morning or night time person? Morning
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be? S.E. Spain
What did you eat for breakfast this morning? Mango and Avocado Salad
What is your favourite style of cuisine? Traditional French cuisine
What would your last supper be? Tagliata con Rucola
Name 3 dream dinner party guests? Justin Timberlake, Jessica Biel, Eros Ramazzotti
What kind of car do you drive? Audi Q5
Where in the world would you visit e? Japan
Where would you want to retire? Switzerland or Austria
What is your Nickname? Mars
What is your best childhood memory? Vacations in Transylvania
What is the closest you’ve ever come to death?
When the wings of my plane touched the runway
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