#49 Maritime Leadership and Empowering Women: Annette Suhrbier, WISTA Germany’s Personality of the Year

In this episode of HANSA.newscast we meet Annette Suhrbier, Sales Director at Döhle Group, who draws on her 40+ years of maritime experience to explore the industry's evolution and the role of women within it.  We dive into the power of networking, with a special focus on the impactful work of WISTA (Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association).

Annette shares her admiration for WISTA, emphasizing that it’s far more than just a networking platform—it's a movement to create visibility for women in the maritime sector. Through WISTA, women are empowered to step into leadership roles, champion diversity, and set new standards in an industry where visibility is essential for long-term progress. 

🚢 What are the challenges women face in maritime careers, and what support do they need? 

Annette discusses the unique challenges women encounter in maritime careers, from underrepresentation to the need for greater support systems. She highlights initiatives that have been introduced to increase female representation at sea and reflects on what has been tried so far to create a more inclusive environment. 

⚓ What defines good leadership? 

Annette shares her leadership philosophy, emphasizing that respect, attentive listening, and genuine appreciation are fundamental, regardless of gender or nationality. She underscores that these qualities are key to fostering strong, effective leadership in any environment.