Baleària launches programme to attract and promote female talent across its fleet

Esto es un subtítulo

• The shipping company will offer a comprehensive training programme and onboard placements to encourage women to join entry-level roles and pursue career development pathways

Baleària has launched a training, recruitment and career development programme for women across its fleet to support their entry into a predominantly male sector. Through this plan, the shipping company aims to increase women’s representation in Deck and Engine roles to 15% by 2030.

Women currently account for around 16% of the shipping company’s total crews. While this figure rises to 30% in onboard services roles,  it is only 5% in Deck and Engine. “This is a sector facing a shortage of professionals, who can also choose to work ashore, making it even harder to increase the number of women on board. Our aim is to strengthen women’s presence by bringing them in at entry level, as deckhands and oilers, and supporting their career progression into senior rating positions,” said Georges Bassoul, CEO of Baleària.

To improve the proportion of women in Deck and Engine, Baleària has developed a range of initiatives, including a group training programme lasting up to five months, which will be delivered at the company’s headquarters in Dénia. Baleària has designed a comprehensive learning plan combining technical vocational training for people with no experience in seafaring roles with corporate training about Baleària. The shipping company will also facilitate onboard work placements.

Baleària has the support of organisations such as WISTA (Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association) and the International Maritime Organization to enhance the quality and reach of the programme.

Baleària currently has an average annual workforce of 2,200 employees, rising to 2,600 in high season, across shore-based and fleet roles. Last year, the number of management positions held by women rose by 4%.