There is growing number of women in logistics, transport and supply chain, but men still make up the vast majority. In general, the logistics sector, including transportation and supply chain, is one of the most developed and largest systems in the world. It moves rapidly towards upward trends, it constantly has to adapt to specific situations, introduce and adapt to new technologies and diverse global business practices. Regardless of the gender diversity in the economic sector, it is visible that in terms of gender, the logistics sector lags behind. According to Gartner's 2022 Women in Supply Chain Survey, women make up only 39% of the industry's total workforce. Although the gap is narrowing, the industry is still struggling to see a proportionate number of women moving up the corporate ladder.
"When I started studying logistics about 10 years ago and after my experience in logistics in the last 5 years, I can say that the difference between employed women and men in the logistics sector is really decreasing but at an insufficient rate. On the other hand of logistics, from the perspective of carriers, we definitely need to work with a higher dose to raise the percentage of employed women in the logistics sector because I still get the impression that I work the most with the men."
The same Gartner poll reported that only 21% of vice president and senior director positions in logistics are occupied by women — a lower figure than in 2021. This lack of representation indicates a growing trend in the loss of female employees in the middle of their careers. When asked why they decided to leave the company, more than half of the women surveyed cited a lack of opportunities for advancement and career development.
Women can help with the new challenges awaiting the logistics sector and supply chain. Female workers represent the great potential of the ability to effectively manage the supply chain. In general, some of the qualities that describe women are dedication, patience, attention to detail, excellent communication skills, the ability to adapt to change, awareness, learning from mistakes. All the above characteristics are crucial for an effective way of working in these sectors that are under constant pressure and change.
Message for women:
"If you're determined to want to go towards a logistics career - just get going. Set goals for success, stay focused, patient, and achieve your goals. The process will be very dynamic, challenging and ultimately cost-effective if you are going to work diligently and devotedly on it. There's no room for boredom in this!" 😊
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