Bedford woman announced as winner in major transport awards

The 2024 everywoman in Transport & Logistics Awards winners were announced at the awards ceremony and luncheon held in London and attended by over 480 industry leaders.

Now in their 17th year, the awards were launched to shine a spotlight on the varied and increasing avenues of opportunities available in the traditionally male-dominated industry and celebrate the vital role that women play within it. Despite progress, only 23% of the industry’s 1.5million employees identify as women, more than half of these women are in non-transport roles, and alarmingly 54% of organisations lack formal targets, commitments, or quotas for gender diversity.1

Maxine Benson MBE, Co-Founder of everywoman said: “Studies consistently demonstrate that diverse teams foster greater creativity, problem-solving abilities, employee engagement, and overall profitability within organizations. The economic benefits of equalising the labour force could lead to potential gains of 10% of GDP by 2030.2 Attracting, retaining, and advancing women has the power to fuel progress, unlock innovation and drive growth, not just for organisations but for the UK economy. Now in our 25th year, everywoman continues to play a significant part in recognising exceptional women whose innovation, skills, resilience, and leadership will inspire future generations of women to fulfil their career ambitions in vibrant and dynamic industries. Congratulations to this year’s winners and finalists who continue to demonstrate the vital role women play as role models and innovators in transport and logistics.”

There are two winners per category (Leader and Above & Beyond) and one winner for Tech Innovator, International Inspiration, Industry Champion, Male Agent of Change, Apprentice of the Year, and Sustainability Champion.

SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION AWARD – SPONSORED BY DSV: Sarah Weller, Commercial Director at UK Truck & Plant Group, from Bedford Having worked for UKT&P for 8 years, managing the largest independent Truck & Plant maintenance facility in the Home Counties, Sarah is the driving force behind setting industry leading sustainability efforts. Last year Sarah led the business through offsetting over 300 tonnes of carbon and recycling over 20,000 litres of used oil, 1,100 batteries and 1,300 tyres. The business achieved carbon neutrality in 2023, with their sights set on carbon negativity by the end of 2024.