Navigating the Tides of Change in the Seafood Industry
By Julie Waites, Seafood Industry Specialist, Director UK Women in Fisheries
Welcome to Fish Focus: Spotlight on Women in Seafood, Issue 2
Celebrating the Trailblazing Women in Seafood
Julie Waites stands as a pivotal figure in the UK seafood industry, with an impressive career spanning over two decades. Throughout this time, she has shown remarkable innovation, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to both sustainability and the promotion of seafood on both domestic and international fronts.
A Leader in a Traditionally Male-Dominated Field
In an industry often characterized by male dominance, Julie has not only established her own presence but has also opened pathways for other women through her advocacy and mentorship.
Education and Early Career
Julie’s impressive journey began with a robust academic background in Food Science from the University of Lincoln. Her early roles in food development and sales at MARR Foods and Unilever laid the groundwork for her deep understanding of the food supply chain—covering everything from product development to delivery.
Pivotal Role at Seafish
However, it was her 14-year tenure at Seafish that truly cemented her standing as a leading voice in the UK seafood sector. As Account Manager, and later Regional Manager, she played a crucial role in significant industry initiatives, including the Humber Seafood Summit and the Whitby Fish & Ships Festival. Her efforts helped highlight the heritage, sustainability, and global reach of British seafood, complemented by her adeptness in public communication.
Leadership in the Frozen-at-Sea Sector
As the Executive Director of the Frozen at Sea Fillets Association (FASFA), Julie has emerged as a champion for the frozen-at-sea sector. Her advocacy underscores the importance of quality seafood supply while simultaneously supporting the well-loved UK fish and chip industry. Her efforts have been crucial in advocating for the integrity of frozen-at-sea fillets sourced from the North Atlantic.
Empowering Women in Seafood
Recognizing the need for enhanced representation and empowerment within the sector, Julie assumed the role of Director at UK Women in Fisheries. Here, she strives to provide women—whether at sea, on shore, or in management—with the visibility, voice, and networks they rightly deserve. Her leadership helps foster a more inclusive future for the seafood workforce.
Contributions to Trade Development
Julie’s expertise extends to the Department for Business and Trade, where she supports the UK’s seafood export strategy. By connecting businesses with international markets, she organizes trade missions and leads UK delegations to seafood expos worldwide, from North America to Southeast Asia. Her ability to bridge government, industry, and international stakeholders has made her a trusted advocate in trade development.
Ongoing Support Through JW Freelance
Through her company, JW Freelance Business Support & Project Management Services, Julie continues to provide strategic and operational support to various seafood associations and businesses, delivering flexible expertise without the burden of permanent staffing costs.
Beyond the Industry: A Passion for Adventure
In addition to her professional commitments, Julie enjoys show jumping with her horses and embarking on various sailing adventures. Notably, she was a crew member on the Great Britain boat, racing across the Atlantic as part of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, and sailed across the Barents Sea in the Arctic for marine research projects. This blend of adventure mirrors her approach in the seafood industry—steadfast under pressure, driven by purpose, and grounded in trust.
A Role Model for the Future
Julie Waites continues to inspire through her talent for connecting people, elevating standards, and representing the seafood sector with both intelligence and compassion. Her career serves as a powerful blueprint for how one individual can shape an industry—not only through expertise but also through leadership, inclusivity, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.
