Did you know… In a sector that employs almost 3 million people within the UK, women make up just a fifth of the workforce?
The topic of gender diversity in the logistics sector has often been overlooked.
But, the reality is, whether it’s a lack of representation in leadership positions or gender stereotypes and biases, women working in logistics face unique barriers to progression.
The good news is that pioneering figures in the sector are having important conversations and making a push for progress.
Read on to find out all about…
- Obstacles to gender diversity in logistics.
- Rerouting Logistics podcast: breaking down barriers with Beverley Bell.
- Joining the conversation.
Obstacles to gender diversity in logistics
It’s no secret that, like many other sectors, logistics has a diversity problem. But what are the top five issues facing women in the industry?
1. Low representation in the workforce
According to the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), women only make up around a fifth of the workforce. Most roles are, therefore, taken up by men.
This can make jobs in the sector unappealing or unwelcoming to women. Thankfully, that’s all changing.
2. Underrepresented in leadership roles
The lack of gender diversity becomes more pronounced the higher up in the industry you get. To illustrate: women hold only 10% of executive roles and 17% of managerial roles in the logistics sector.
3. Limited career progression opportunities
Research by Logistics UK has found that only 25% of women in logistics have access to a formal career development plan.
4. Pay disparity
On average, women in the UK logistics sector earn 14.5% less than their male counterparts, as reported by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). This gender pay gap is significantly wider than the average British gender pay gap of 9.4%.
5. Recruitment challenges
Only one in four UK logistics companies actively recruit women. But, in failing to improve gender diversity in logistics, companies miss out on fresh perspectives and valuable insights.
Rerouting Logistics podcast: breaking down barriers with Beverley Bell
It’s important to note that just because these barriers exist doesn’t mean they can’t be overcome.
Need proof?
Just look at former Senior Traffic Commissioner Beverley Bell!
Beverley recently sat down with Sharon Kindleysides, the CEO of CILT, to discuss their incredible careers in the logistics industry.
Together, they tackled stigmas around sexism in the Logistics sector, the double standards mothers and older women often face, the importance of diversity and inclusion, and the big benefits of choosing a career in logistics.
Listen to Episode 1 of Rerouting Logistics on YouTube or Spotify now!
Join the conversation
The Rerouting Logistics podcast is a brand new podcast by Aspion Search, hosted by former Senior Traffic Commissioner Beverley Bell. We’re on a joint mission to confront key issues in the world of Transport & Logistics!
Join us for important conversations on key topics, including:
- Diversity in logistics.
- Women in logistics.
- Young people in logistics.
- The future of the sector.
- Logistics careers.
And much more!
These sorts of discussions are crucial if we’re serious about overcoming ongoing issues within this vital industry.
Watch or listen to the first episode wherever you get your podcasts… And keep an eye on the Aspion Search LinkedIn page to make sure you never miss an episode!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bp9E09_-Lc8
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3cJhKOQAL9iApzyb4oy9al
