Meet Hayley Stringer – Penzance Quay Gateman

After more than three decades in the telecommunications industry, Hayley began a new chapter in 2024 on Penzance Quay, joining the heart of our freight operations as Quay Gateman. She is the first point of contact for many Isles of Scilly Freight suppliers and plays a key role in ensuring a smooth and well‑coordinated start to each day’s loading.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Day to day, I’m organising traffic queues, directing vehicle movements, and working closely with the team to keep everything running smoothly. Sailing days are full on, with a never-ending stream of packers, produce vehicles and gig boats that just keep coming. These days rely heavily on good communication, teamwork, and the ability to think on your feet.

Non-sailing days are usually a bit calmer and give us time to get organised and ready for what’s coming next.

What is the most challenging aspect of your role?

One of the trickier parts of the job is dealing with modular housing units – they’re big, awkward, and demand extra care thanks to their size and huge trusses.

I do my bit to keep spirits up on the busiest days – there’s usually a pocketful of sweets or a secret snack stash ready for morale-boosting emergencies.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I enjoy the variety, the teamwork, and the trust I’m given to get on with the job. I really value the people I work with and like tackling challenges, even when things don’t go quite to plan. The team always sets a positive tone for the day, usually with a quick catch-up over a cuppa before we get started. I also enjoy working with the delivery drivers—they’re friendly and easy to get along with.

Yes, the job is outdoors and the weather likes to test us, but that’s all part of the challenge (and the fun). And I’m proud to be the first woman on the gate… even if my job title still says Gateman.