Our team

MONIQUE DYKSTRA

Founder/Director

Recruiting: Captains, Pursers, Chief Stews, Chefs & Engineers.

Monique launched the agency following a successful career as a Chief Stewardess on 100m+ yachts. She saw a gap in superyacht recruitment for a more bespoke and personal service that focuses on building relationships. Her prior experience in global advertising agencies and her Degree in Business, along with her extensive networks in the industry, enables Monique to provide a unique boutique approach to superyacht recruitment. Globetrotter Monique is a passionate foodie, fitness fanatic and cannot survive the day without a strong coffee!

Monique works between Europe and NZ.

E: monique@saltwaterrecruitment.com ..... W: +44 7 960 110605 (Whatsapp)

M: +64 21 179 3755 (NZ)

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KATIE ILLINGSWORTH

Senior Recruitment Consultant - Deck

Katie has been with Saltwater since 2019 and in that time has shown a tenacious drive for sourcing and recruiting top quality crew. Katie has a natural eye for detail, is meticulous in everything she does, and possesses an impressive knack for successfully placing deck crew in roles they love and thrive in. Known for her chic minimalist style, previously Katie followed her passion for fashion, gaining a BA Degree In Fashion. While her career pivot has confirmed that superyacht recruitment is her calling, her regular jaunts to the high street indicate she still has her eye on the the latest trends! 

Katie recruits for our entire Deck Dept. all levels - up to Chief Officer.

E: katie@saltwaterrecruitment.com. ….. ….…M: +44 7 944 192837

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HEATHER BURNETT

Recruitment Consultant - Interior

Following a successful 12-year career on yachts, Heather brings a wealth of industry knowledge as well as extensive onboard recruitment experience. Heather is a people-person and incredibly well-connected so she is perfectly suited to nurturing relationships with our Clients and Candidates. Heather is happiest when she is walking her dogs in the countryside, learning something new and has the sound of the water (or Taylor swift) in her ears!

Heather recruits HOH, HOS, 2nd Stews + Stews of all levels.

E: heather@saltwaterrecruitment.com. ….…M: +44 7769 478 068

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madison jay

Marketing Coordinator

Madison lives and breathes the yachting industry. After 7 years onboard and working herself up to Chief Stewardess on a prestigious 85m, she decided to start life on land, building an online business that teaches green crew how to break into the world of superyachts. Missing working in a team working, she jumped at the opportunity to join the team at Saltwater where her talents for organisation, multi-tasking and all things online could be put to good use. When she isn’t swooning over the latest new build, Madison is planning her next social activity or getaway.

Madison manages our social media strategy, content planning and assist with events.

E: madison@saltwaterrecruitment.com… .

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​Stephanie durkan

Team Administrator

Stephanie enjoyed an exciting 11-year career onboard superyachts, where she progressed to Purser. Steph’s strong administrative skills and extensive industry knowledge are a huge benefit to the Saltwater team. She supports us behind the scenes, ensuring smooth operations. Outside of work, Steph loves experiencing new restaurants, staying active, and unwinding with country walks.

.................She also helps the team with admin and helps us find our superstars!

E: info@saltwaterrecruitment.com