Women Shaping the Future of Yachting: Highlights from the Women in Yachting Conference in Athens
The Women in Yachting Conference, held on December 2nd 2025, at the Eugenides Foundation in Athens, brought together some of the most inspiring and influential female professionals shaping today’s maritime and luxury tourism landscape. The event is a reflection of how rapidly the industry is evolving and how essential women’s expertise has become across all sectors of yachting.
Across panels, presentations, and networking sessions, participants explored topics ranging from sustainability and compliance to digital transformation, charter trends, leadership, and industry growth. Greece, with its deep maritime heritage and thriving charter sector, provided a fitting backdrop for meaningful dialogue and a celebration of the women driving the industry forward. The atmosphere throughout the day underscored a shared commitment to collaboration, innovation, and an inclusive future for the global yachting community.
IYC’s Commitment to Leadership and Representation
For IYC, the event resonated strongly with values already embedded in our culture. As a company operating at the forefront of the global brokerage and charter market, we take pride in fostering leadership based on expertise, vision, and excellence; qualities embodied by many women in executive and operational roles across our international teams.
This year, we were especially proud to see four exceptional IYC leaders invited as speakers, each contributing her own perspective on the future of the industry. Their presence reflects not only their individual achievements, but also the broader reality that women are shaping strategy, technology, compliance, and client experience at the highest levels of our organization.
Spotlight on the IYC Women Who Took the Stage
Marie Molls – Global Director of Charter Management
As one of the industry’s most respected figures in charter, Marie Molls leads IYC’s extensive global charter management division with a focus on operational excellence and elevated client service. At the conference, she shared insights on evolving charter trends, the importance of proactive fleet strategy, and the role of strong leadership in an increasingly competitive market. Her perspective highlighted how innovation and consistency define the modern charter experience.
Irene Saranti – Chief Digital Officer
In a sector undergoing rapid digital transformation, Irene Saranti represents the forefront of technological evolution in yachting. As IYC’s Chief Digital Officer, she has been instrumental in developing platforms and tools that enhance client engagement, streamline internal processes, and improve data-driven decision-making. Her discussion at the conference centered on how digital ecosystems are rewriting the rules for efficiency, transparency, and customer experience within the luxury yachting market.
Betty Ghika – Senior Yacht Manager, Greece
With deep expertise in all facets of yacht operations, technical oversight, and owner support, Betty Ghika offered valuable insight into the tightly coordinated world of yacht management. Her intervention emphasized how a strong management framework not only protects owners’ assets but also ensures seamless operations for crew and charter guests. Her presence on stage underscored the essential leadership roles women play in complex, high-responsibility operational domains.
Areti Priovolou – Global Compliance Manager, DPA/CSO
Representing one of the most safety-critical areas of the industry, Areti Priovolou spoke on the importance of compliance, regulation, and risk mitigation in modern yachting. As IYC’s Global Compliance Manager and Designated Person Ashore, she plays a pivotal role in ensuring that our managed fleet adheres to the highest global standards. Her contribution highlighted how women are leading not only in client-facing positions but also in technical, regulatory, and security-focused fields fundamental to safe and responsible yachting.
A Meaningful Step Forward
The Women in Yachting Conference served as a powerful reminder of the depth of talent, expertise, and leadership that women bring to the yachting world. For IYC, it was an honour to see our team represented so prominently in conversations that will shape the future of our industry. As the sector continues to evolve, embracing sustainability, innovation, and new standards of excellence, the voices of these women will undoubtedly remain at the forefront.