21 October 2026
Global marine leaders come together at Metstrade for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of work, developing talent and building the next generation of industry leaders.
With just weeks to go, marine industry professionals are being encouraged to secure their place at the fifth annual Women in the Marine Industry International Panel & Networking Breakfast, taking place at Metstrade 2026 on Wednesday 18 November.
Following two consecutive years of capacity audiences, this popular international gathering returns with an exceptional line-up of female leaders, fresh perspectives and an opportunity to connect with industry colleagues from across the world.
Hosted by British Marine, Metstrade, the Soundings Trade Only Group and Marine Industry News, the complimentary event is open to women and men at every stage of their careers, offering a morning of insightful discussion, shared experiences and valuable networking over breakfast.
Exploring the future of the marine workplace
Under the theme ‘Future of the Marine Workplace: Building the Next Generation of Leaders’, this year's discussion will examine how the industry can attract, develop and retain the talent needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive and rapidly changing world.
As technological innovation, evolving workforce expectations and global economic pressures reshape the way businesses operate, the panel will explore what it takes to build resilient organisations, nurture emerging leaders and create inclusive, high-performing workplaces.
Attendees can expect a lively and thought-provoking conversation combining real-world business experience, personal career journeys and practical insights relevant to organisations of all sizes.
Meet the 2026 panel
Image L-R: Paulee Day, Fiona Richardson, Victoria Low and Michele Goldsmith
Three accomplished female leaders, representing different areas of the international marine sector, will share their perspectives:
- Paulee Day – President and Chief Executive Officer, West Marine: A seasoned marine industry leader who combines extensive operational and leadership experience with a strong focus on business growth, governance and industry collaboration.
- Fiona Richardson – Vice President of Human Resources, Navico Group: An international HR leader specialising in organisational development, business transformation, talent and leadership, with a passion for creating workplaces where people and diverse perspectives can thrive.
- Victoria Low – Chief Executive Officer, The Magenta Project: A leading advocate for greater opportunity and inclusion across professional sailing and the marine industry, with extensive experience in mentoring, leadership development and creating pathways for emerging talent.
The discussion will be expertly guided by Michele Goldsmith, Vice President and General Manager of the Soundings Trade Only Group, a longstanding champion of women in the marine industry and the driving force behind the Women in the Industry initiative.
Five years of connections, conversations and progress
Celebrating its fifth anniversary in 2026, Women in the Marine Industry International has established itself as an important fixture in the Metstrade calendar, providing a welcoming platform for meaningful conversations, professional development and international connections.
With more than 160 attendees at the 2025 event, the breakfast continues to demonstrate the value of bringing together professionals from different disciplines, backgrounds and career stages to share experiences and explore the opportunities shaping the industry's future.
Whether you're an established business leader, an emerging professional, an employer looking to develop talent or simply keen to broaden your industry network, the event promises valuable takeaways and connections.
Event details – secure your place
- Date: Wednesday 18 November 2026
- Time: 08:30–10:00 CET
- Venue: Metstrade Stage, RAI Amsterdam
- Cost: FREE – complimentary breakfast included
- Who can attend: All registered Metstrade visitors and exhibitors; women and men welcome
Attendance is FREE, but places are limited and advance registration is essential.
Supporting girls' education with Room to Read
Women in the Marine Industry International also continues to proudly support Room to Read, a global charity focused on children’s literacy and girls’ education. Building on the success of May’s Global Women’s Walk, which saw marine professionals raise awareness and vital funds, this year’s event keeps the momentum going.
This year we have an audacious goal to raise $25,000 to support an entire school! Attendees are invited to join the cause and help change lives through the power of education. Together, we’re making a difference - one step, one voice, one girl at a time.
Donate here - https://secure.roomtoread.org/page/186427/donate/1
Learn more about Room to Read - www.roomtoread.org/
Attendees should register using the dedicated Women in the Marine Industry International registration link, which will secure both their Metstrade admission ticket and a place at the breakfast event. Registering through this link will ensure early access to the venue ahead of the show’s official opening time.
Register now: https://register.visitcloud.com/survey/12k0lfjz2410m?actioncode=MET4230
Already registered for Metstrade or attending as an exhibitor? You will need to register again using the Women in the Marine Industry International panel and networking event link above to secure your place, using the action code: MET4230.
For the latest updates, follow Women in the Marine Industry International on LinkedIn.