Harwich Haven Authority Wins ‘Inclusive Workplace of the Year’ at BPA Conference

20 October 2025

Pictured L-R: Sarah West, Linzi Jobber, Louise Fennessy, Helen Rudd and Sam Jacques-Waller

Harwich Haven Authority (HHA) has been named Inclusive Workplace of the Year at the British Ports Association (BPA) Conference 2025, recognising the organisation’s outstanding commitment to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment for its people.

The award celebrates the Authority’s ongoing work to champion inclusivity across every level of its operations and highlights a series of groundbreaking initiatives that are setting new standards for equity in the maritime sector.

A standout example of this commitment is the formation of the UK’s first all-female launch crew, a milestone made possible through HHA’s innovative Apprenticeship Programme. This pioneering team has become a symbol of progress in an industry traditionally underrepresented by women, demonstrating that meaningful change comes through sustained, intentional action.

Helen Rudd, Strategy & Partnerships Director, said:

“We’re incredibly proud to receive this national recognition. Inclusivity isn’t just something we talk about – it’s embedded in how we operate, how we recruit, and how we support our people. This award is testament to the hard work, passion, and belief of every member of our team who is helping us shape a more diverse and inclusive future for maritime.”

A Culture of Inclusion

Over the past 18 months, HHA has introduced a wide range of initiatives to build a truly inclusive workplace. These include:

  • Redesigned recruitment practices to attract a more diverse pool of candidates, featuring gender-neutral language, inclusive imagery, and promotion of family-friendly policies.

  • Enhanced parental leave well above statutory requirements, supporting mothers, fathers, adopters, and carers equally.

  • Flexible working and phased retirement options for older employees, helping to retain invaluable expertise while supporting wellbeing and work-life balance.

  • Transparent pay and progression frameworks and above Real Living Wage salaries for all apprentices, ensuring fairness and accessibility for all.

  • Inclusive leadership training for managers and executives, embedding awareness and accountability at every level of the organisation.

These collective efforts have delivered tangible results: a 50/50 gender balance across both the Board and Executive teams, a 3% rise in applications from women since 2024, and growing representation of women in traditionally male-dominated operational roles.

The Power of Apprenticeships

HHA’s Apprenticeship Programme has been a cornerstone of this success, providing structured development pathways for individuals from all backgrounds. Apprentices gain hands-on experience across marine operations, engineering, and vessel traffic services, supported by mentoring, accredited training, and industry engagement opportunities.

Two female marine apprentices from the programme recently earned permanent operational roles within the Authority, forming the country’s first all-female launch crew — a breakthrough moment for gender equality in maritime.

“Our apprenticeships are about more than training – they’re about opportunity,” added Helen Rudd. “By creating a culture where everyone can thrive, regardless of background or gender, we’re not only shaping the future of our workforce but helping to change perceptions across the entire industry.”

Looking Ahead

As the Authority continues to grow, inclusivity remains central to its People Plan and long-term strategy. HHA is committed to further embedding diversity, equity, and wellbeing into its culture — ensuring that every employee, from apprentices to executives, has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

“This award is recognition of the values we live every day,” said Helen Rudd. “But it’s also a reminder of what’s possible when we work together to make maritime a place where everyone belongs.”