On 8th March 2025, International Women’s Day is being celebrated across the world, and the logistics industry is proud to honour the contributions of women who have broken barriers, shattered stereotypes, and paved the way for future generations. Krista Flanagan, Jade Grant, and Sarah Rae are among the many women leading the charge in a traditionally male-dominated industry, proving that expertise and leadership in logistics are not defined by gender. These women have not only shaped their own careers but are also championing diversity and inclusion in logistics, demonstrating the importance of recognising and supporting women in the field.
Krista Flanagan’s career journey was anything but conventional. While waiting to begin a team coach role at O2, she took on short-term agency work providing office support. It wasn’t long before she discovered a passion for recruitment, and when the agency offered her a permanent position, she embraced the opportunity—despite the initial pay cut. Fast forward twenty-five years, and Krista is now the managing director at Bluestones Supply Chain, having built an impressive career from the ground up.
Reflecting on her early years in the industry, Krista acknowledges that it wasn’t always easy, but she prefers to focus on how the industry welcomed her. “There’s no doubt that logistics was a tough industry to break into all those years ago, but I’ve always felt that it embraced me,” she says. “Rather than seeing myself as a trailblazer, I see my journey as one of opportunity, growth, and being part of an industry I fell in love with.”
Over the years, Krista has witnessed a real shift, with more women entering logistics and moving into leadership roles. “The industry has changed so much, and I love seeing more and more women thriving in logistics,” she says. “It’s an incredible field with so many opportunities, and the more we champion diversity, the stronger the industry becomes.”
For Krista, International Women’s Day is about celebrating progress and encouraging even more women to consider careers in logistics. “The industry is evolving, and there’s never been a better time for women to be part of it. If you’re passionate, determined, and ready to take on new challenges, logistics has a place for you.”
Jade Grant’s story is another example of how women are reshaping the logistics industry. Starting her career in demolition, Jade worked in health and safety before transitioning to Russell Transport in 2023. Initially working in finance, she quickly found a new passion when a role in compliance and health and safety opened up. Since then, Jade has embraced the challenges of logistics with enthusiasm, demonstrating that women can excel in even the most technical roles.
“Logistics has been a great fit for me,” Jade says. “I love understanding the processes and methodologies that ensure workplace safety. It’s not just about doing a job—it’s about making a difference.” Unlike many women in male-dominated industries, Jade has not encountered significant gender-related challenges. “The company is focused on whether you do your job well, regardless of gender,” she explains. For Jade, working in logistics has shown her the unique contributions women can bring to the table, especially when it comes to mental health. “Men often feel more comfortable talking to a woman about mental health,” Jade notes, highlighting how important female representation is in ensuring a well-rounded, supportive workplace.
This International Women’s Day, Jade’s message is clear: women belong in logistics, and gender should never be a barrier to success. “Find a company that supports your development,” she advises. “If you have the right support, gender won’t matter. Go for it, and don’t let outdated stereotypes hold you back.”
Sarah Rae’s journey into logistics is a powerful example of rising through the ranks and overcoming challenges. Starting with no prior transport experience, Sarah joined ArrowXL as an admin clerk and quickly adapted to the fast-paced logistics environment. Her career trajectory has been rapid, with her promotion to transport first line manager in 2024. Sarah has faced challenges, particularly when it comes to encountering resistance from those unaccustomed to women in leadership roles, but she has remained firm in her belief that gender does not define capability.
“At ArrowXL, we treat everyone the same, regardless of gender,” Sarah says. “Challenges can arise, but we handle them professionally and fairly. What matters is how you perform, not whether you’re male or female.”
Through her leadership, Sarah is playing an important role in promoting a diverse and inclusive logistics workforce. “There should be no reason why women can’t succeed in logistics and leadership roles,” Sarah asserts. “It’s about capability, not gender. If you’re willing to put in the work and develop your skills, there’s nothing stopping you.”
As Sarah continues to grow in her career, she recently took a major step forward by undertaking the Transport Manager CPC qualification and is now awaiting her results. “It’s a big moment for me,” she says. “Regardless of the outcome, it’s another step towards proving that women can lead in this industry just as effectively as men.”
This International Women’s Day, Sarah’s journey serves as an inspiration for other women looking to enter the logistics sector. “It’s about celebrating the progress we’ve made but also pushing for more opportunities. We’ve come a long way, but there’s still work to be done,” she says.
Krista, Jade, and Sarah’s stories highlight the progress women have made in logistics and the ongoing work needed to create more opportunities for women in the industry. As logistics continues to evolve, it is clear that women like them are shaping a more inclusive and diverse future. Their collective achievements remind us that logistics is a field where talent and determination matter far more than gender.
On this International Women’s Day, their message is clear: logistics is for everyone, and for women considering a career in the industry, there has never been a better time to start. With role models like Krista, Jade, and Sarah leading the way, the future of logistics is not just about moving goods—it’s about breaking down barriers and moving forward together.