The importance of female role models

The 2025 everywoman in Transport & Logistics Awards, in association with bp, is celebrating exceptional women who are transforming the industry through innovation, leadership and vision. Two of this year’s judges explain why female role models are vital for attracting a new generation of women to the logistics industry.

Karen Govier, Head of Equality Diversity & Inclusion at Wincanton, and judge for the 2025 everywoman Transport & Logistics Awards, comments:

“The phrase “You have to see it to be it” often attributed to tennis legend Billie Jean King, is used to emphasise the importance of having role models and visibility for under-represented groups, to inspire them to achieve. When women are not visible at entry level, in operational leadership, or in senior director roles, it becomes harder to envision a future in the field – and to aspire to those positions.

“With the logistics sector accounting for 8% of all UK employment, it has a significant responsibility to attract and nurture future talent – particularly women – across a wide range of roles, including warehouse operations, IT, automation, administration, finance, HR and driving roles. When we involve our own female talent, whether speaking in schools, at careers fairs, or university events, we help show what is possible. It’s up to all of us to make sure the next generation of women sees a future in logistics.

“Having female mentors within the logistics sector is a vitally important component for recognising, supporting and advancing careers of female talent, at all levels. Studies continue to highlight a persistent confidence gap: women often hesitate to apply for roles unless they meet every qualification, while men commonly apply when they meet just 60% of the criteria.

“Showcasing successful female entrepreneurs, particularly in emerging fields like technology, AI, and robotics, also helps to broaden perceptions of what’s possible. These role models highlight career paths that women may not have previously associated with the logistics sector, helping to break down stereotypes and expand ambition.

“To future-proof the logistics industry, mentors and entrepreneurial figures must act as catalysts — not only attracting more women into the field, but also ensuring they are supported throughout their career journeys.” Fiona Dempster, Head of Logistics & Documentation at PG Paper Company, and judge for the 2025 everywoman Transport & Logistics Awards, comments:

“Bringing more women into logistics starts with showing them they can succeed. Role models, mentors and recognition all play a part in that. They help make the industry feel more open, more supportive and full of opportunity.

“For me, female role models are so important because they show others what’s possible. When women see people like them succeeding in logistics, whether in operational roles, management positions or building their own businesses, it makes the path feel more achievable. I think representation helps break down the old image of logistics as a male-dominated industry and shows that it’s a modern, dynamic sector with space for everyone.

“Mentors also play a key role in helping women feel supported, encouraged and valued. I don’t think mentorship always needs to be formal to be effective. Sometimes it’s regular guidance, honest conversations or simply having someone who listens and understands the journey. These relationships can build real confidence, especially in industries that can still feel intimidating to newcomers.

“I also think female entrepreneurs lead by example, and our own CEO is a brilliant example of that. She’s helped build an inclusive workplace and shown that there’s no single path to success. To me, it’s a powerful reminder that women aren’t just part of our industry, they’re helping shape its future.

“Being part of the everywoman in Transport & Logistics Awards has been one of the most rewarding and inspiring experiences of my career. These awards do so much more than recognise success, they tell the stories behind it: stories of hard work, ambition and resilience. Hearing those stories, and being part of celebrating them, is a reminder of how much incredible talent exists across the industry.”

The winners of the everywoman in Transport & Logistics Awards, in association with bp, will be announced at the awards ceremony and luncheon held on 26th June 2025 at the Park Plaza London Riverbank. For further information, or to book tickets for the networking event and celebration, visit www.everywoman.com/tlawards

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