Under the theme “Ports that have developed innovative policies and/or strategies that successfully attract more women to work in ports”, the ESPO Award 2025 will be handed over to the port managing body that actively promotes a supportive and inclusive work environment for female professionals, thereby advancing gender balance.

The four projects that are shortlisted for this year’s Award are the projects of: Port of Helsinki (Finland); Port of Lisbon (Portugal), Port of Rotterdam (the Netherlands) and Shoreham Port (United-Kingdom).

ESPO is proud to present the shortlisted projects ahead of the winner’s announcement during the traditional ESPO Award Ceremony and Dinner, which will take place on November 5 at the Hôtel des Douanes in Brussels. Find out more about the project of Port of Rotterdam.

Port of Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Anchoring Women in Port Careers

1. Congratulations! You have been shortlisted for the ESPO Award 2025! Could you briefly describe your project?

“Anchoring Women in Port Careers” is a collaborative initiative in the Rotterdam port area aimed at addressing the persistent gender imbalance in port-related professions. Despite women making up 40% of the Port of Rotterdam Authority’s workforce, there is few women working in operational roles. Our project tackles this challenge through targeted recruitment, employer education, and empowerment programs. By joining forces with over 125 companies, we strive to attract more women to technical and operational roles, foster inclusive workplaces, and retain female talent within the port ecosystem.

2. Could you tell us more about how your project attracts more women to work in ports and creates a supportive work environment for female professionals in the port?

We attract women through a multi-layered approach. A recruitment campaign under the platform “Working in the Port of Rotterdam” showcases female role models and highlights career opportunities, especially in energy transition and digitalisation. Initiatives like Girls’ Day, magazine interviews, and participation in events such as the Technical Women’s Dinner inspire girls and students to consider port careers. To support women in the workplace, we offer employers tools and training via www.inclusievehaven.nl, organise bi-monthly sessions on inclusive leadership, and provide free diversity scans through TNO. Empowerment events like “Women at the Port” and “Port of Empowerment” build community and visibility, while mentorship programs are being developed to support career growth.

3. Could you describe the original and innovative character of your project?

What makes our project unique is its ecosystem approach: companies in the port area collaborate rather than compete to improve gender diversity. We combine visibility campaigns with structural support for employers and employees. The use of scientific research to guide cultural change, the creation of a shared toolbox, and the building of a D&I professional community are all innovative elements. We also focus on long-term retention by supporting labour mobility within the port area, ensuring women can grow and thrive across different companies.

4. Why do you think your project deserves to win the ESPO Award 2025?

Our project deserves to win because it addresses a deeply rooted challenge with a comprehensive, collaborative, and sustainable strategy. It not only increases the visibility of women in port careers but also transforms workplace culture to support their success. By anchoring female talent in the port area, we contribute to a more inclusive, innovative, and resilient maritime sector—setting an example for ports across Europe.

“In the port, we’re not just building infrastructure – we’re building opportunities. Together, we make sure women find their place and claim it.”
Berte Simons, COO, Port of Rotterdam
Source: ESPO