The Women in the Marine Industry International panel and networking breakfast took place at Metstrade 2025, drawing more than 160 attendees to the Metstrade Stage at RAI Amsterdam on 19 November.
The event brought together professionals – both male and female – from multiple parts of the marine sector for discussions linked to the year’s theme, Navigating Today’s Global Market.
Women in the Marine Industry International is hosted by Metstrade, British Marine, Marine Industry News and Soundings Trade Only, with support from Barton Marine.
The session included an open networking breakfast and a panel moderated by Michele Goldsmith, vice president and general manager of Soundings Trade Only Group. She guided conversations addressing consumer behaviour, technology developments, supply chain pressures and international commercial conditions.
The all-female panel featured Áine Denari, executive vice president and president of Navico Group and chief technology officer at Brunswick Corporation; Andrea Tetto, director of marine business planning at Yamaha US Marine Business Unit; Suzanne Blaustone, CEO of Barton Marine; and Sylvie Ernoult, show director of Cannes Yachting Festival.
Ernoult, who is about to retire, revealed her thoughts on her replacement, Constance Brément, and unpicked details of the festival planning process.
Looking back at the successful session, Tetto says: “The event was amazing. I was very excited as it was my first time participating. I was impressed with the level of attendance – I didn’t expect that many people. The energy, the questions, their passion, and the support for the event were truly inspiring.”
Denari adds: “Just a phenomenal experience to be here and part of this panel. It’s invigorating to see great women in leadership roles discussing the future and how we can increase female participation in the industry and in recreational boating more broadly. I’m delighted to have had the opportunity to meet such an amazing group.”
Blaustone comments: “Today reflects exactly what’s happening in the industry, with more and more women stepping into strong positions. It was encouraging to see so many people, men and women, who want to see women continue to network, connect, and take on new challenges.”
A $5,000 contribution was presented on stage to the charity Room to Read, which supports children’s education globally.
British Marine CEO, Lesley Robinson, concludes: “Women in the Marine Industry International continues to demonstrate the power of bringing together diverse voices to explore the future of our sector. This event not only celebrates the achievements of women in the industry but also drives forward important conversations on leadership, innovation, and global opportunity.
“It was fantastic to see such high engagement, and I look forward to seeing this event continue to grow year on year.”
The post “The power of diverse voices”: Women in Marine panel at Metstrade explores sector’s future appeared first on Marine Industry News.
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