Ruth Waring
Founder of Women in Logistics, Managing Director of Labyrinth Logistics Consulting, Co-Creator of SilkThread®
Ruth has 27 years’ experience in the transport industry. She was recruited by the NFC (now DHL) for their graduate training scheme in 1989. Ruth set up Women in Logistics UK in 2008 to help increase the number of women in the sector and address the gender imbalance.
I have lost count of the logistics company websites I have viewed where there is not one female director and all the others look identical. The dynamic changes significantly when women get involved.
How did it start?
After I had my first child, I was offered a big promotion on the understanding I didn’t have another baby for 2-3 years. I found a new job soon afterwards and left. I turned the experience into a positive as it spurred me on to set up Women in Logistics.
What needs to change?
We’ve done a lot to increase the confidence of our Women in Logistics members with our mentoring scheme and events tailored to help them reach their potential, but I think the initiative now needs to come from the employers to demonstrate that they do really want to take advantage of a wider talent pool.
Any Advice for Women in Male Dominated Industries?
It’s not an easy industry but, if you’re prepared to be strong and you’re an organised person, the logistics sector is an amazing place to work. The opportunities are so varied and it’s possible to earn a good salary. No day is ever the same and it’s great for those who want to travel. So, I’d say gird your loins and prepare to blast off!