Leadership profile: Beatriz Yera

Inclusion is a strategic imperative at APM Terminals Mexico, and it begins with valuing the unique strengths and perspectives each individual brings.

Under my leadership, we have cultivated an environment where equal opportunities are not just aspirations but realities. Through targeted training, mentorship programmes and clear career pathways, we empower every employee - regardless of gender - to thrive and advance within the organization.

Inclusion here is embedded in our culture and daily practices, driving innovation and collective success.

This prestigious recognition reflects the shared vision and relentless dedication of our entire team. It symbolises APM Terminals Mexico’s leadership role in driving transformation, sustainability, and inclusion within the national maritime sector.

For me as Director, it validates our efforts to position Lázaro Cárdenas as a beacon of innovation, community engagement, and excellence. It is a testament to the passion and commitment of every member who contributes to making this terminal a leader on the global stage.

My leadership philosophy is grounded in integrity, empathy and visionary thinking. I lead with respect, transparency and accountability - always prioritising people at the heart of every decision.

For me, leadership means serving others, inspiring growth and paving new pathways for the future. These values empower us to build a more sustainable, diverse and inclusive maritime sector, setting standards that others aspire to follow.

Creating inclusive spaces where every voice is valued is key. I actively encourage open dialogue, foster trust, and align our teams around a shared purpose.

Celebrating joint successes and recognising individual talents strengthens engagement and drives collective ownership. Our collaborative culture allows us to address challenges proactively and innovate continuously, ensuring a positive and productive work environment.

Lázaro Cárdenas is not just a terminal – it’s a dynamic engine of national growth and opportunity. Every container we move represents livelihoods, economic progress and international connectivity.

Leading this strategic hub is profoundly rewarding because we are directly shaping Mexico’s future.

Being part of this transformative journey fuels our pride and motivates us to deliver excellence every day.

Inclusion is not optional – it’s an essential responsibility. It means creating a workplace where every individual, regardless of gender or background, feels seen, heard and empowered.

This award reaffirms that inclusive leadership strengthens teams and builds resilience in the maritime industry. At APM Terminals, we are steadfast in cultivating a culture of belonging where diversity is leveraged as a powerful driver of innovation and growth.

Under my direction, we launched the Network of Professional Women in the Maritime Industry in 2023 at Lázaro Cárdenas, a pioneering initiative that provides a vital platform for dialogue, mentorship and advocacy on inclusion and gender equity. This network has grown rapidly, now extending to our Progreso terminal, fostering solidarity and amplifying women’s voices across our operations.

The impact has been transformative, promoting real progress and inspiring the next generation of female leaders in maritime.

Significant strides have been made.

At APM Terminals Mexico, women now hold five key leadership and management roles, illustrating tangible progress in representation. In Progreso, women comprise 30% of the workforce, a remarkable milestone in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

Our goal is clear and ambitious: to increase female leadership and embed gender equity deeply within our sector’s culture, transforming it from the inside out.

Women often face fear and self-doubt when entering these spaces. My advice: trust your value, embrace your capabilities and don’t let external pressures hold you back. Preparation and perseverance open doors.

Equally important is to cultivate a culture of listening – actively hearing employee voices creates psychological safety, which is the foundation of inclusion.

Inclusion is not a checkbox; it’s built every day through courageous leadership, coherent policies and a genuine commitment to equal opportunity at all levels.

Sustainability is at the core of our vision. We are leading decarbonisation efforts aligned with APM Terminals’ global strategy, focusing on reducing fuel and electricity consumption, transitioning to electrified equipment, and sourcing renewable energy.

In Mexico, this includes a landmark Power Purchase Agreement to supply renewable electricity, installation of solar panels and modernisation of our infrastructure, all targeting net-zero emissions by 2040.

Beyond environmental goals, we strive to be Mexico’s most reliable terminal, fostering pride and purpose in every employee.

Innovation is a continuous journey at APM Terminals Mexico. We are committed to investing in technology, infrastructure, and talent development that meet Mexico’s evolving needs.

Our focus on operational excellence means leveraging digital tools, automation, and sustainable practices to drive efficiency and competitiveness.

By nurturing local expertise and pioneering smart solutions, we contribute decisively to the country’s industrial and economic growth.