In today’s rapidly evolving world, the need for women’s inclusivity in traditionally male-dominated industries like logistics cannot be overstated. Highlighting the significance of gender diversity in the logistics sector, emphasizing its role in driving innovation, improving operational performance, and fostering equality, Taninder Kaur, Head – Supply Chain and Innovation, Coca Cola India & South West Asia engage in a profound conversation in this month’s ‘Wings of Change’.
A passionate supply chain professional with over 18 years of diverse experience, she shares her perspective on why gender diversity is essential for the industry’s innovation and success. She also delves into strategies for encouraging more women to participate in logistics and supply chain roles, shedding light on the importance of scholarships, mentoring programs, and the promotion of female role models.
Why is women’s inclusivity important in a predominantly male-driven domain like logistics?
I feel that women’s inclusivity in the logistics industry, which is predominantly a male-driven domain is not only important but essential. In this ever-evolving world, gender diversity in the workplace stands out as a critical driver of innovation, creativity, and overall success.
Different Perspectives: Women can bring a different perspective to the table, thereby fostering innovation and creativity. These fresh perspectives can lead to better problem-solving strategies and decision-making.
Improves Operational and Financial Performance: Numerous studies have shown that companies that prioritize gender diversity tend to outperform those that don’t. A more balanced workforce can lead to improved productivity, greater performance, and increased profitability.
Encourages Equality: Inclusivity encourages equality. By promoting and supporting women’s inclusivity, companies can help to break down gender stereotypes and contribute to a more equal society.
How can we encourage more women to participate in the logistics and supply chain domain?
Although a critical sector, logistics has never been a coveted industry to be in, especially for women. It has been only in recent years that, the industry has been encouraging and seeing more women participation. According to a 2022 Gartner Survey, women account for 19% of C-level positions in the average supply chain organization, up from 15% in 2021. However, women comprise 21% of VP-level roles, a decrease from 23% last year, and 39% of the total supply chain workforce are women, down from 41% in 2021. This clearly shows, that there is much to be done to encourage more women participation in the sector.
Although a critical sector, logistics has never been a coveted industry to be in, especially for women. It has been only in recent years that, the industry has been encouraging and seeing more women participation. According to a recent Gartner Survey, women now make up 41% of the supply chain workforce, up from 39% in 2022. The advances were particularly prominent at the C-Suite and executive level, where 26% of those roles (CSCO, SVP, EVP, CPO) are now filled by women, an all-time high and up from 19% in 2022. Although things look bright, there is still a lot to be done to encourage more women participation in the sector.
The industry needs to promote more female role models. By putting forward successful women in logistics as role models we can inspire other women who are looking from the outside. Showcasing their achievements and contributions can break the stereotypes and show that women can excel in these areas too.
Lastly, I feel the need to initiate dialogues and awareness programs. By doing so, we can address preconceived notions about logistics and supply chain being a ‘male domain.’ Initiating dialogues and running awareness programs can help in debunking these myths.
Can you share with us any important women-led projects that have piqued your interest?
SpaceX’s Dragon 2: This project was led by a pool of women engineers, with Leanne Caret at the helm, where astronauts were transported to the International Space Station. This project caught worldwide attention and was a significant leap for women in STEM fields
This is an abridged version of the Interview published in the November edition of the Logistics Insider Magazine. To read the complete interview, click here.
