With this year’s campaign theme for International Women’s Day being Inspire Inclusion, we wanted to hear from individuals and HR professionals regarding their thoughts and insights surrounding inclusion within the maritime industry.
Simone Ramos
Superintendent Ports & Logistics, Lockton Brasil
Is the maritime industry doing enough to ensure the recruitment, retainment and development of female talent?
I believe that the industry has made real progress with the commitment to developing female talent, especially with the increase in female participation in C-Level positions and recruitment with opportunities for women. I see that we are in a process of journeys and steps that are being taken in favour of equity, but there are still issues to be overcome.
Do you think there are enough practices in place within the maritime industry to support women throughout their career and into leadership roles?
I think practices are developing, I see companies with significant mentoring programs, succession in senior positions and career plan development. These are essential initiatives to support women in leadership positions and are led by the board of each company, which is extremely important for much-needed change within the industry.
Do you think the maritime industry needs more infrastructure to support women’s needs?
Many companies in the maritime industry already offer maternity leave above what is required by law. On the other hand, women have additional needs, such as caring for elderly parents, who are generally under their responsibility and require time and special care and greater support for their families. menopause and childcare topics.
When was a time when you felt included within your workplace?
There was no milestone, it is a process, an evolution that occurs in waves, there are moments when I realize that the female presence in some spaces is seen as audacity and others when I manage to make myself present and be respected as a professional. I understand that the process towards gender equality is collective and involves women and men. We are walking. Today I feel more included than yesterday and, I’m sure, tomorrow will be even better.
Vuslat Ubogu
Director of Legal Affairs, Yildirim Group
Is the maritime industry doing enough to ensure the recruitment, retainment and development of female talent?
The maritime industry has finally accepted that women are not giving up! Therefore, all the doors we have been knocking on, are beginning to open one by one. So, my answer is quite positive; female talents are no longer being ignored in the sector.
Do you think there are enough practices in place within the maritime industry to support women throughout their career and into leadership roles?
The maritime industry is still male-dominated and full of challenges for women in their leadership aspirations. Unfortunately, we are still far from having equal representation of men and women at higher levels. On the other hand, women have learned how to navigate obstructions in business life and alter them slowly, which means better days ahead…
Do you think the maritime industry needs more infrastructure to support women’s needs?
Absolutely! But in addition, men should be equally given benefits such as andropause support, paternity leave and childcare support as well in order to eliminate the illusion that women have other issues in life distracting them but men do not.
When was a time when you felt included within your workplace?
I have experienced my own challenges and faced gender discrimination in my career as well; but, I have also encountered very valuable colleagues, mentors and leaders who encouraged me to show who I am and add my values to the business. I can proudly say that I always feel respected and appreciated at my office.
Anonymous
Is the maritime industry doing enough to ensure the recruitment, retainment and development of female talent?
Still some efforts needed. There are still very few women in technical or management roles.
Do you think there are enough practices in place within the maritime industry to support women throughout their career and into leadership roles?
There are too few women at the board or in management positions. They are not often considered for management roles due to existing biais and lack of supports.
Do you think the maritime industry needs more infrastructure to support women’s needs?
Additional childcare options would be helpful.
When was a time when you felt included within your workplace?
Part of a cross departmental group in charge of the decarbonisation matters for the company.
