Twelve of the most inspirational role models in the UK’s transport and logistics industry have been announced as winners in the 2017 FTA everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards.

The awards programme was first launched to raise awareness of the varied opportunities within transport and logistics, while creating visible role models to inspire and encourage more women to pursue a career in the industry.

These women have been recognised as the finest in their field, from individuals making significant improvements to road and rail infrastructure to those renovating intricate warehouse logistics in organisations including Sainsbury’s and KPMG.

To celebrate the programme’s 10th anniversary, the brand-new format celebrated two women per category: one going above and beyond in her role and one making a positive impact as a successful leader. Furthermore, the Industry Champion Award was presented to an individual championing the progress of women working in transport and logistics. 

In addition to category winners, a special Woman of the Year Award was presented to Julie McCaffery, change manager (Scotland) at Asda, from Grangemouth Stirlingshire, who was recognised for contributing to the increasing success of the organisation after she led numerous colleague engagement and continuous improvement projects. These initiatives improved the site’s overall safety, customer service and reduced colleague underperformance costs by 70% over the last 12 months alone.

However, her tenacity is not limited to the workplace. Since 2010, she has worked on a part-time basis as an associate lecturer at the University of West Scotland, delivering the MSc programme to quality management, project management and logistics and distribution students.

By sharing her personal and professional experiences, Julie uses this platform to encourage and inspire students, particularly female students, to venture into this industry.

Maxine Benson, co-founder of Everywoman, said: “We are proud to recognise individuals who are transforming the industry through their tenacity, passion for innovation and commitment to mentoring the next generation.”

David Wells, chief executive officer at the FTA, added: “At such a time of great change and economic uncertainty, we need to inspire young people and showcase aspirational role models – our finalists today certainly fit the bill. 

"The teenagers of today are the transport managers and logistics directors of tomorrow and these awards will help us to raise the profile of our sector throughout the country, as well as rewarding those who have shown exceptional dedication and ability.  Many congratulations to them all.”

The category winners for the 2017 FTA Everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards are:

The Freight Award – sponsored by Eddie Stobart - Awarded to a woman demonstrating how she is innovating in the sector.

Above and Beyond

Tracy Ward, Contract Manager, PD Ports

Leader

Jannette Wallace, Runcorn Depot Manager, CM Downton, from Runcorn, Cheshire

The Passenger Award - Awarded to a woman demonstrating how she is improving the customer experience.

Above and Beyond

Victoria Garcia, Accessibility and Communities Officer, Brighton & Hove Buses, from Brighton & Hove

Leader

Michelle Hargreaves, Managing Director, Stagecoach East Midlands, from Lincoln

The Infrastructure Award - Awarded to a woman demonstrating how she is improving road or rail infrastructure.

Above and Beyond

Caroline Milnes, Programme Manager, Tesco, from St Albans

Leader

Sue Kershaw, Managing Director, KPMG, from London

The Supply Chain Award – sponsored by DHL – Awarded to a woman demonstrating how she is improving processes within supply chain.

Above and Beyond

Jeny Hanvey, Customer Service Manager, Kuehne + Nagel, from Wellingborough, Northamptonshire

Leader

Gillian Joyce, Former National Fleet Manager, Post Office, from Manchester

The Warehousing Award – sponsored by Amazon - Awarded to a woman demonstrating how she is innovating and improving warehouse operations

Above and Beyond

Claire Davidson, Senior Project Manager - Logistics Implementation, J Sainsbury’s, from Rugby, Warwickshire

Leader

Angela Howard, VP Operations – Retail, DHL Supply Chain, from Rugby, Warwickshire

The Industry Champion Award – sponsored by Asda Logistics Services - Awarded to one individual only, male or female, demonstrating the impact that they have had on attracting and retaining women in the industry.

Jacqueline O'Donovan, Managing Director, O'Donovan Waste Disposal, from London

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