Hannah Bywater’s Rapid Progression in the Logistics Sector 

Hannah Bywater's Rapid Progression in the Logistics Sector : With International Women's Day nearly upon us, Generation Logistics is celebrating the high achievers within the sector, and there's no better example than Hannah Bywater at Espace Global Freight. Having finished school, Hannah was drawn to a role at the company because it was advertised as "problem-solving in a fast-paced environment," something that she felt suited her skill set. "I enjoy negotiating prices with customers and drivers and ensuring a high standard of compliance and service.

Every day brings different challenges (mostly unexpected). I enjoy analysing situations quickly and making effective decisions to keep operations moving smoothly." Now a UK Freight Operator, Hannah has worked her way up via an International Freight Forwarding Specialist Apprenticeship, which she credits Espcace for supporting and investing in her development: "This provides me with hands-on experience across all sectors of transport.

All to prepare me for a Business Development Manager role. "It's rewarding to see that the hard work and problem-solving I put in is genuinely valued. I enjoy visiting clients, catching up outside of work and developing genuine friendships with people who I wouldn't have met if it weren't for being in this industry." Located in Burntwood in the West Midlands, Espace provides many opportunities within the area for aspiring logistics professionals.

When it comes to advice for those looking to get into the industry, the 26-year-old said: "Get stuck in and learn as much as you can about every part of the process (don't be afraid to ask questions). Logistics isn't as simple as moving goods; it's about problem-solving, communication and planning. The more exposure you get, the more opportunities you will have."

Bethany Windsor, Programme Director at Generation Logistics, comments: "Stories like Hannah's really highlight that you don't always have to go to university to get onto a successful career path.  "There are plenty of opportunities to progress quickly if you are willing to put the work in and open yourself up to developing new skills. Her career so far highlights that logistics is such a broad sector with a lot of different opportunities for young people leaving school to quickly learn and grow into their respective roles."

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: "Logistics is one of the fastest growing sectors in the West Midlands thanks to our prime location at the heart of the UK's road and rail networks. "This means more job opportunities for local women like Hannah, who are increasingly playing a critical role in keeping the nation's people and goods moving. "We need world class logistics so that high-value sectors like advanced engineering, EV technology and health tech can thrive and support my Growth Plan to create 100,000 good jobs, build 120,000 homes and improve transport infrastructure."

For those wanting to find out more about the opportunities available, take this quiz to see which role in logistics could fit with your future: www.generationlogistics.org/find-your-future/

Transport & Logistics Magazine - Proudly Supporting Women