Transforming supply chain and logistics through diversity and inclusion

Today’s complex supply chain environments require professionals that can make critical decisions to streamline operations and build resilience.

These people come from diverse groups and bring various skills to the job – including a focus on effective collaboration. Unfortunately, many groups are still excluded.

According to a 2021 survey by Gartner, women comprise around 41% of the global supply chain workforce. While it is evident that the number of women in the supply chain sector is increasing, it is undeniable that logistics is still a male-dominated industry.

Supply chain disruptions – including lack of access to raw materials, container shortages, and price inflation exacerbated by the pandemic – have acted as a catalyst for rethinking talent in the industry. Today, nearly three-quarters (74%) of global logistics companies prioritise diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in their hiring efforts.

The Deutsche Post DHL Group (DHL) is proud to be a diversity champion, with women comprising almost 50% of its total workforce in sub-Saharan Arica. Over the past five years, the proportion of women sitting on other supervisory boards has grown from 30% to 40%.

Although these numbers indicate significant progress, there is still a long way to go. Across the industry, continuing to build a diverse workforce with the required expertise is crucial for the success of logistics companies.

According to a 2021 survey by Gartner, women comprise around 41% of the global supply chain workforce. While it is evident that the number of women in the supply chain sector is increasing, it is undeniable that logistics is still a male-dominated industry.