International Women’s Day: interview of Laure Jacquier, Sustainability Manager at Damen Shipyards Group

On International Women’s Day, discover the interview of Laure Jacquier, Sustainability Manager at Damen Shipyards Group. Laure evokes for us Damen’s involvement in Green Marine Europe, its bigger environmental challenge and the importance of bringing diversity and inclusion to advance the sustainability of the maritime sector.

To begin, could you summarize Damen’s activity in a few words?

The family-owned Damen Shipyards Group has been in operation for over ninety years and offers maritime solutions worldwide. With 35 shipyards in thirteen countries, we provide direct employment to over 10,000 people, bringing together a total production value of 2.3 billion euros and delivering over 140 ships in 2021.

What are your missions at Damen?

During 2019 Damen Shipyards Group recalibrated its course. Our new CEO had a clear ambition: to be the world's most sustainable and digital shipbuilder. My mission is to keep improving our sustainability performances, making sure our social, environmental, and economic impact are in balance, and that Damen pursues its ambition without letting anybody behind. And I believe a diverse and inclusive team is key to our present and future success. 

What motivated your involvement in our certification?

With 35 yards globally, the operation of the yard has a significant impact. Damen is working hard to be more data-driven and act quantitatively on sustainability. The Green Marine Europe certification can accelerate and underline our efforts on measuring sustainability. That’s why Damen is involved in its Advisory Committee.

What is your bigger environmental challenge right now?

As an integrator of numerous different parts that result in complex, high-end vessels, our supply chain is currently a big challenge. Getting all our suppliers on board our strategy will not be easy. Furthermore, the operation with many entities worldwide makes it a challenge to align with the high standards we have as a Dutch shipyard group. Regulations and expectations are not aligned and makes it difficult to prioritise properly.

If you had one piece of advice for a young girl to work in maritime sector, what would it be?

The maritime sector has a massive impact on the globe and can't be missed in the global economy. If you want to make a real impact aiming for a sustainable future, the maritime industry is the go-to sector where you can make a real difference. So please, be proud of the place where you are working, proud of being you and bringing female perspective in this male dominated industry. It can be tough, but it makes it more rewarding!