The women steering Scotland’s busiest port

While the industry has traditionally been male dominated, the maritime industry is changing, and at Port of Aberdeen women are playing a key role in that transformation.

From marine coordination and engineering to financial management and business administration, women are making a powerful impact across Scotland’s busiest port – with their contributions driving progress, innovation, and positive change.

Charting their course

Natalie Shaw, Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Supervisor, has been a vital part of the port’s marine team for eight years, bringing with her seagoing experience as a former deck officer. Starting as a VTS Assistant, Natalie was supported by the port to gain her VTS qualifications and take part in cross-functional projects, helping her build confidence, expertise, and strong connections across the business. “I loved my role as a VTS Officer, but stepping into a leadership position gave me the chance to drive positive change for the team and our stakeholders. I wanted to bring my experience to the table and make a meaningful difference.”

Aleksandra Naprawska, Civil Engineer, plays an important role in day-to-day maintenance and enhancement of the port’s infrastructure. “Working at the port opened my eyes on how much work goes into maintaining the existing infrastructure, above and below the water, and the amazing but difficult work that other departments do to keep the port live.” Aleksandra was also heavily involved in the development of the port’s £420 million Aberdeen South Harbour expansion project and says she “enjoyed the challenge of introducing new infrastructure that will benefit both the present and future of the port.”

Alison Munro, Engineering and SHEQ Administrator, and Magdalena Wojtalewski, Senior Accountant, are also part of the growing group of women at the port who are helping to shape its future. Each brings a unique skill set and perspective to their roles – underscoring the importance of inclusion at all levels of the organisation.

Creating prosperity for generations

Port of Aberdeen has made public commitments to nurturing the next generation of talent and is actively working to inspire the next generation of female maritime professionals.

This year, we welcomed three Modern Apprentices into our administration and engineering teams. We also proudly supported a Foundation Apprentice from Mackie Academy to complete her business qualification with us.

We actively participate in the Young Person’s Guarantee and engaged in numerous initiatives throughout the year to connect with the young workforce. This included taking part in Apprenticefest, organised by Developing the Young Workforce (DYW), as well as supporting mock interviews and local school careers fairs. We also enjoyed hosting visits to the port by youth groups, such as the Aberdeen Sea Cadets, inspiring them with the diverse opportunities within the maritime sector.

Holly Allan, Innovation Project Manager, has played a key role in the establishment of the port as a leading maritime hub for collaboration and innovation. Since joining the port as a Graduate Project Manager three years ago, Holly was given the opportunity to work alongside multiple departments before being promoted into her current role. “Being a graduate at the port gave me so many learning opportunities” she said. “It was the perfect opportunity to start a career and to continue learning.”

Jade Mclennan, Apprentice People & Culture Administrator, joined Port of Aberdeen in 2024. Currently working toward her SVQ Business and Administration SCQF level 6, Jade provides administration associated with recruitment, onboarding new employees, training course bookings and general support. “I loved the idea of the apprenticeship and haven’t looked back since,” said Jade. “I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity and feel that I’ve finally found the right path for me.”

Looking to the horizon

By investing in its people and sharing their stories, the port hopes to not only attract more women to maritime, but to ensure they have the tools, support, and mentorship needed to succeed. However, promoting gender balance is just one part of the port’s wider commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion. 

Our vision is to be a workplace where everyone feels empowered, valued, and proud to be themselves – regardless of background or circumstance. Through actions such as inclusive recruitment, regular policy reviews, personal development plans, employee feedback, and wellbeing initiatives – like our Thrive programme – we’re working to build a workforce that reflects the community we serve. 

By fostering equal opportunity and fair treatment, Port of Aberdeen aims to create a culture where all individuals can thrive and contribute to a prosperous, inclusive future for generations to come.