Issue 17
HOT SEAT:
Interview with Mrs. Ana Rumbeu, Training Director, Valenciaport Foundation and Chair of MEDPorts Women Committee
The New MEDPorts Women’s Committee: Empowering Women in the Mediterranean Port Sector
Issue 17
HOT SEAT:
Interview with Mrs. Ana Rumbeu, Training Director, Valenciaport Foundation and Chair of MEDPorts Women Committee
The New MEDPorts Women’s Committee: Empowering Women in the Mediterranean Port Sector
The Women’s Committee brings a unique and much-needed dimension to the MEDPorts Association by fostering diversity and inclusion as key drivers of innovation and progress. In a sector traditionally dominated by men, the Committee introduces fresh perspectives that can address complex challenges such as sustainability, digitalization, and operational resilience. Research has consistently shown that diverse teams make better decisions, and the Women’s Committee aims to harness this potential for the benefit of Mediterranean ports.
One of the Committee’s key contributions is its ability to connect women across different ports and regions, facilitating knowledge-sharing and collaboration. By creating initiatives like cross-port exchange programs and annual talent showcases, the Committee not only empowers women currently in the industry but also inspires future female leaders to envision a career in the port sector. Ultimately, this enhances the association’s mission by ensuring that Mediterranean ports are better equipped to tackle emerging challenges while building a more inclusive and sustainable future for all.
Women in the Mediterranean port sector face several challenges, ranging from deeply rooted cultural norms and biases to systemic barriers like unequal access to leadership opportunities and technical training. The perception of ports as physically demanding, male-centric workplaces has historically deterred women from pursuing careers in this sector. Furthermore, data suggests that women are underrepresented in managerial roles and face disparities in promotions, wages, and professional networks.
The Women’s Committee addresses these challenges head-on with a combination of strategic initiatives. For example, it will publish an annual Gender Gap Report, which analyses disparities in hiring, promotion rates, and salaries across Mediterranean ports. This data will help establish clear benchmarks for progress. Additionally, the Committee will introduce programs like the Women’s Leadership Training Program, which focuses on skills like negotiation and project management, and cross-port job shadowing programs to promote mentorship and knowledge exchange. These initiatives aim to create an ecosystem where women feel supported and valued, ultimately reducing the gender gap and ensuring women are recognized as essential contributors to the port sector’s growth and innovation.
The Women’s Committee is open to women across all roles within MEDPorts member ports, from operational staff to managerial and executive positions. By joining, members gain access to a powerful network of professionals dedicated to fostering gender equality and professional growth in the Mediterranean port sector. Membership also offers unique opportunities for leadership training, mentorship, and participation in cross-port initiatives, all of which can accelerate personal and professional development.
The next steps for the Committee include launching initiatives like the Mediterranean Women’s Network, an online platform where members can share resources, collaborate on projects, and support one another’s growth. Additionally, we aim to host the first Women’s Cross-Port Cooperation Forum, where members will collaborate on solutions to shared challenges such as sustainability and operational efficiency. These projects are designed to give members a tangible role in shaping the future of the port sector while building lifelong connections. Joining the Women’s Committee isn’t just about advancing your career—it’s about being part of a movement to transform the industry into a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable space.