Geodis notes that the logistics industry is not typically characterised as having equal gender representation, but wants to prove that diversity and inclusion is key to delivering innovative solutions. The logistics company have launched their equality programme in the Asia Pacific region, in a bid to level the playing field when it comes to logistic employment opportunities.
“Alignment between the aims of the International Women’s Day organisation and ourselves at GEODIS lies particularly in championing a hiring process where the most appropriate person gets the role, regardless of gender, because we are focused on delivering what is best for the business and for our customers,” illustrated Anne Tan, head of HR in APAC. “Additionally, we are committed to celebrating our women and men who lead others towards a more equal workplace, distinguishing GEODIS from its competition in an otherwise male dominated logistics industry.”
Onno Boots, GEODIS’ CEO for APAC reflected: “Women now constitute a third of our management board in APAC; up from zero just a little over a year ago,” he said. “It shows our commitment to diversity and inclusion. It is also strong evidence of the range of talented women who are now attracted to the world of logistics. At our country management level across the region, 40% of the team are women.”
Geodis believe that creating an environment that welcomes diversity will be important as the industry undergoes a time of rapid change, specifically in its digitalisation. Crucially an equal commitment to inclusivity is key to achieving dynamism, creativity and fresh approaches to problem solving that are required to react to such a need for change.
To implement this programme, Geodis will emphasise education of gender-neutral policies, localised provision of family care and flexible working hours.