We've seen a slow and steady rise in women choosing careers in road transport in recent years, but there's still a long road ahead if we're going to improve gender equality in this sector. We know the ability to recruit and retain a diverse workforce is high on the agenda for our members, many of whom are taking necessary steps to create inclusive environments that allow women to thrive in their careers.
For International Women’s Day 2023, we speak to a number of women connected to the road transport industry, about how they’re leading the way, challenging stereotypes and inspiring the next generation of women to consider a career in logistics.
Laura Melville, Trainer at RHA Scotland
“Being a woman in logistics can have its challenges, but it’s an honour to not only be the first female trainer at the RHA, but also the youngest. I hope my journey will inspire future female and young trainers alike.”
Danielle Wilson, HGV Driver at T Wilson and Sons
“Working in logistics as a woman makes me proud as it has allowed me to push myself, surpass expectations, and believe anything is possible.”
Emma Barber, Chief Executive Director at W H Barley Transport & Storage
“I’ve been in this sector from a young age, and with over 25 years’ experience have a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed in the transport and logistics industry. Through my experience as a logistics operator and my position as the second female and youngest Vice Chair of the RHA, I hope to encourage more women into the industry.”
Beverley Bell CBE, Director at Beverley Bell Consulting Ltd.
“Every day is a women’s day for me! The logistics sector can be undervalued by the public and so I am proud to support any initiative which promotes the great work it does.”
Claire Logan, Operations Support Manager at Long Lane Deliveries
“I am proud to be a woman working in the logistics industry because it is a great industry to be part of. Unfortunately, there are still far too few women working in the industry, and so we must continue to work hard to make logistics a diverse and open space.”
Sara Burks, Founder and Managing Director at Adaptis Limited
“I love working in logistics as people are at the heart of the industry, and getting the best from each other is a something that’s warmly received.”
Linda White, Regional Operations Manager – Southern & Eastern at RHA
“As Regional Operations Manager for the RHA, I’m proud to be part of a team who are passionate in their support of our membership nationally. There are many rewarding careers in our industry for women, and I hope to inspire others to take up the opportunities open to them.”
Pamela Dennison CMILT, Policy Support Officer (NI) at RHA
“I hope we are inspiring future generations of women to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential. Women working in logistics are bringing diversity to the industry, which leads to more innovative solutions and approaches, different perspectives and experiences, and a more inclusive and equitable workplace.”
Jordan Shelvey, Director at Shelvey Haulage Limited
“I would love to see more women in the logistics. I was lucky to have my Mum as my inspiration, so it’s great to have social platforms now, where we can showcase and encourage more women into this industry.”
Laura Taylor, HR Director at RHA
“The logistics industry is full of hardworking, passionate, and talented people and I’m privileged to work with them. At the RHA we’re proud to have equal numbers of women and men working here, and we hope that’ll be mirrored in the wider industry in years to come. We’ve just started our Equity at Work drive which will see us ensure that the RHA is an inclusive employer: our vision is to be able to inspire others, especially our membership, to emulate our work in the future.”
Emma-Kate Wyrley-Birch, Marketing, Media & PR Manager at CS Ellis Logistics
“Working in the logistics industry offers an abundant and diverse array of career opportunities. As the industry continues to foster better gender equality it's an exciting time to be part of the sector. We offer an inclusive team, regardless of gender, and today we proudly celebrate that.”
Sandra Pretorius, Chief Marketing Officer at Mandata
“Leading studies have shown that woman bring more empathy and transformation to the workplace – skills that are especially appreciated and needed in a high-pressure industry such as logistics. It truly is a privilege to be part of the collective voice that makes logistics a better industry for all its players.”
