Women in Breakbulk: Europe Edition

Marianne Blechingberg

Managing Director Hacklin Logistics, Finland

Marianne Blechingberg has been working in the shipping, forwarding and logistics sectors for the past 40 years. She found her passion in the shipping industry, enjoying the international interactions and the dynamic nature of the business already during her first apprenticeships with working with liner agencies and ship brokerage.

She was appointed Managing Director of Hacklin Logistics in 2013 after having acted as a director for the operations in the company since 2007. Hacklin Logistics belongs to the Hacklin Group, a family-owned company established 1908 in Pori on the West Coast of Finland.  

Marianne’s knowledge concerning shipping and freight forwarding is prominent and she has been involved in ocean freight, project cargo transports,  heavy lift operations and all forms of multimodal and transportation modes throughout her career. She has experience in leading successfully customer service and sales teams and have a good experience of leading key account sales for different industry sectors like renewable energy, pulp and paper and marine industry. 

Marianne was elected 2023 to become a member of the executive committee of The Heavy Lift Group and has since acted as the responsible ExCom member of the business development within THLG.
Founded in 1987 by a consortium of western-European heavy-lift operators in anticipation of the Single European Market, THLG has expanded to include companies from North and South America, Asia, Africa and other parts of Europe.

Between 2013-2022, Marianne has served as the Board member of the Finnish Freight Forwarder Association and chaired the ocean freight team of FIFFLA for more than a decade.

Marianne has a bachelor’s degree in business administration and marketing from the Business College in Helsinki. She has also a certificate of International Transport and Logistics studies from Jyväskylä University.  
Marianne communicates fluently in the following languages: Swedish (mother tongue), Finnish and English. She has a basic knowledge of German language as she has worked in Germany in the mid 1980’s. 

Anne Saris

Business Manager Agrofood Port of Rotterdam

Eli Gjesdal

Director Empower Leadership Institute

Eli Gjesdal has collected more than 40 years of professional experience within international shipping from Norway, Sweden, United Kingdom and the U.S.. She was the first Statoil female employee to work in the U.S. Now, as the founder of Empower Leadership Institute, she is a leadership enthusiast. Passionate about serving people and organizations, driving diversity and inclusivity. Her superpower is supporting female leaders in the shipping and maritime industry. Eli is all about people and her purpose is to serve and set other people up for what they define as their success.

Her list of credentials include:

• Founder and managing director, Empowered Leadership Institute AS
• Co-founder and first president of Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA) Norway
• TEDx Stavanger, Speakers Coach
• Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC), Associate Certified Coach (ACC) and a member of International Coaching Federation (ICF)

Elisabeth Cosmatos

President; CEO The Heavy Lift Group (THLG); The Cosmatos Group of Companies

Elisabeth Cosmatos has been working in the shipping, forwarding and logistics sectors for the past 25 years. She was appointed managing director of The Cosmatos Group of Companies in 2000 and leads business activities across a portfolio of well-known industry brands which include Hub Logistics, Fairplay Forwarding and Cosmatos Shipping Services.  

Elisabeth’s expertise in the project cargo and heavy lift sectors embraces all aspects of multimodal transportation, in diverse industries such as industrial, oil & gas, renewable energy, and defence logistics.  Her experience extends to port and terminal operations and support services for yachts and cruise ships – as well as ship agency attendance for all types of ships and cargo handling operations.

Elisabeth is currently the President of The Heavy Lift Group (THLG), having been part of the Association’s Executive Committee for the past six years.  Founded in 1987 by a consortium of western-European heavy-lift operators in anticipation of the Single European Market, THLG has expanded to include companies from North and South America, Asia, Africa and other parts of Europe.

Leslie Meredith

Marketing & Media Director Breakbulk Events & Media

Leslie Meredith is the marketing and media director for the Breakbulk portfolio. She is the head of Breakbulk Magazine, runs Breakbulk Studios and is the founder of Women in Breakbulk. She grew up in the industry as the daughter of a head of global logistics for a major EPC and most values her discussions with industry experts as a constant source of learning more about this ever-evolving industry.

Miriam Nagel

General Sales Manager MOL Döhle Worldwide Logistics GmbH

Miriam Nagel brings over two decades of professional experience in international shipping, forwarding, and project logistics to her role, with a significant focus on the dynamic markets of the Far East, particularly Japan. 
Leveraging her deep understanding of the Japanese business environment and values, she harnesses the nation's renowned efficiency, innovation, and commitment to quality. 

Miriam's expertise extends to navigating cultural nuances and fostering strong business relationships, ensuring optimal outcomes for her clients in this vibrant and lucrative market. 

Miriam is an active member of WISTA Germany. 

Beyond her professional achievements, she is deeply committed to advancing equality and inclusivity, both within the industry and in broader societal contexts.

Amanda Bouin

Global Senior Director of Energy Geodis

"You are not alone. Networking and helping other women are great ways to overcome the constraints that we sometimes face."

Cynthia Worley

Vice President Strategic Acccounts SEDNA

"Don't wait to be asked to dance."

Emma Nash

Business Development Manager Tuscor Lloyds Global Logistics

"Anything is possible! Many years ago this Industry was considered 'male dominated'. I am pleased to say that today this is not the case, more and more women are choosing a career in Logistics from Operational to Director level and I am confident this will grow even further in the future. Today there are more networking events such as Women in Breakbulk - I recommend getting involved and using the opportunity to meet like-minded Women Take risks , share ideas and embrace new challenges."

Eve Gogarty

Business Development Director - Europe PSA BDP

“I always feel that most of us are here because someone gave us a chance. I have always been grateful for mentor figures to learn and improve from. I think it’s hugely important to support each other, try to be a mentor when you can, and pass what you have learned onwards!”

Linda Treuman

Owner Marina Projects

"Show yourself - your expertise and knowledge is an example for others."

Maria Cartier

Market Development Manager Port Milwaukee

"Grow and leverage your network of both women and men. Share your story and promote the many great career opportunities the maritime industry offers for women. Stay true to yourself, be confident and take your seat at the table."

Mirella Castle

Sales & Operations Tuscor Lloyds Global Logistics

"Believe in yourself and always look for opportunities to learn new things."

Molly Grossman

Head of Business Development SEDNA

“You don't need to sacrifice your feminine qualities to fit the expectations of a male-dominated sector. Stereotypical female traits such as empathy, patience & loyalty is what makes us outperform men in every sector. Lean in!”

Talia du Plessis

Key Account Manager Sarens

“It is a complex industry, overcome the hurdles with hard work and finding partners that can support you for technical solutions in their field of expertise. It really does 'take a village' to get to the finish line."

Therese Langseth

Sale & Purchase Shipbroker Friday & Co. Shipbrokers

"Let's pave the way as strong role models for future generations of women in the shipping industry. By demonstrating our expertise, leadership, and resilience, we can make the field more appealing and accessible to women, fostering diversity and innovation in maritime careers."

Victoria Paterson

Principal Consultant Faststream Recruitment Ltd

"Building other women up is so impactful and can make a huge difference to industries and society as a whole. Always celebrate each other!"