Entries are being invited for an awards programme for women working in transport and logistics.

The Everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards champion the women leading the way, with categories encompassing those who are drivers, managers, or those identified as the stars of the future in this fast-paced and varied sector.

The UK logistics sector is worth over £93 billion to the economy. One in twelve working people in the UK are employed in logistics equating to some 2.3 million people spanning 196,000 companies.

Through research undertaken at the second annual everywoman Transport and Logistics Leadership Academy event held in June 2012, it was confirmed that 94% of the attendees – all women in middle management roles in logistics - felt their career aspirations could be fulfilled within the sector.

However, despite this, significantly fewer women than men are working in this industry, with only 25% of the workforce being female.

The research cited ‘lack of role models’ and ‘access to influential mentors’ as key factors holding them back from career advancement and these awards aim to address this issue.

By raising awareness of women who are currently enjoying career satisfaction and success within transport and logistics, others will view it as a sector where they can excel, creating a pipeline of future leaders.

For 2013, the Freight Transport Association (FTA) is partnering with everywoman as title sponsor of these awards, demonstrating the commitment of both the organisation as well as its members to supporting women in the industry.

Maxine Benson, co-founder of Everywoman, said: “The transport and logistics sector is no longer an exclusively male environment, but we need to continue to raise awareness and get the message out about the diverse range of career opportunities it offers.

“We launched these awards to raise the profile of inspirational female talent, to encourage women across the UK to pursue a career in the industry.

“We want to encourage more women to abandon their misconceptions and learn more about the diverse range of opportunities offered in transport and logistics.

“These awards are a channel for unearthing role models, in order to readdress the gender imbalance in the sector and I urge women already leading the way to enter.”

Theo de Pencier, chief executive of the Freight Transport Association (FTA) said: “FTA is exceptionally proud to be the Title Partner of the 2013 everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards. 

“Women are an essential part of every aspect of supply chains, from drivers and warehouse staff, to transport managers and managing directors.

“Industry cannot be passive in attracting women, and the everywoman awards are the perfect opportunity to showcase how women can make a career in transport a successful and fulfilling one which is why FTA is delighted to support this event. 

“FTA is leading by example through the high proportion of female specialists and managers it employs and women also hold key positions on its Main Operating Board.”

Nominations will close on February 11, 2013, and entries can be made online from today (December 3, 2012) at www.everywoman.com/tlawards.

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