Beyond the boxes: the perspective of a woman leader in logistics

As a prominent figure among women in logistics, Sarah Harvey, the UK Site Manager at Radial, has built a successful career in a traditionally male-dominated industry. She oversees operations with a strong commitment to growth, diversity, and innovation. With over 20 years of experience across various roles, she brings a unique perspective on the logistics sector, the importance of hands-on experience, and the value of a supportive, inclusive workplace. Her insights highlight the need for genuine inclusion, where all voices are heard and valued.

How do you lead teams in this male-dominated environment? What unique strengths do women bring to the table?

Sarah: It’s not as male-dominated as you might think. While I am the only female site manager at Radial, we have many female team leaders and colleagues within operations. In any organization, diversity is key. Different people bring different perspectives. Women in logistics often bring creativity, pragmatic thinking, and unique communication styles. However, it’s important to recognize that everyone brings different strengths, regardless of gender. Ultimately, I believe the best person for the job should always be the priority, no matter their gender, age, or background.

You’ve had various roles within Radial. How would you describe the growth opportunities available?

Sarah: When it comes to growth, there are many opportunities, not only within Radial but also within the bpostgroup. We focus on hiring the best person for the job. There is always room for growth, and it’s about the skills and experience you bring to the role. In this industry, hands-on experience is equally as important as formal education.

Are diversity and inclusion central to Radial’s way of thinking?

Sarah: Radial does an excellent job fostering diversity and inclusion. I’ve never faced any issues, and I actively encourage diversity within my teams. There have been different initiatives in recent years aimed at creating a more equitable and welcoming environment, some of them promoted female leadership. However, it’s important that these initiatives are implemented correctly to avoid reverse discrimination. The focus should always be on placing the right people in roles based on their abilities, not just to fill a quota.

Can you share some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a woman in Radial, and how you overcame them?

Sarah: Work-life balance was the biggest challenge for me, but it’s not unique to the logistics industry, it’s something many women face in any field. It was challenging, especially when my children were young. However, I’ve always had flexibility, such as part-time work, home office options, and the ability to adjust my schedule for appointments. Radial has been supportive in providing that flexibility. Operational roles can be more demanding, but with the right flexibility and support, they are manageable.

Where do you see the future of women in logistics?

Sarah: I see it as incredibly promising, especially with the growth of e-commerce. However, it needs to start in schools and colleges to raise awareness, as many, including myself, end up in this field by chance rather than as a planned career choice. The growth of e-commerce and the influence of social media and influencers are making logistics a more attractive industry for everyone.

What advice would you give to women considering a career in this sector?

Sarah: My advice to other women is to jump in. This is a dynamic and challenging industry that’s constantly evolving with new technologies. Innovations like automation, artificial intelligence, and sustainability initiatives are creating new opportunities for everyone. The industry is competitive, but that only opens up more chances for growth. Personally, I’m still learning and developing, especially in areas like automation and AI, so I can help my team grow into future leaders.