Break the Bias: Transport co-ordinator calls for more women to join sector

A Coventry-based transport co-ordinator has called on women to recognise the career opportunities available to them within the sector. Gemma Moyo, who works for waste management specialist CSG, believes more women should join the transport industry if they are looking for varied and rewarding long-term job satisfaction – a view that ties in with this year’s International Women’s Day theme: Break The Bias. “I have worked here for two years now, and I can honestly say every day is different,” said Gemma. “My role sees me managing a fleet of vehicles and drivers and ensuring we meet our customers’ needs, every day.

“Traditionally this has been a very male-dominated industry, but I think more women are now seeing the advantages of careers in HGV driving or transport management. We will always need a network of professional road haulage and service vehicles, so there are lots of opportunities for women to succeed in this sector.” This year’s International Women’s Day takes place on March 8th and the theme of Break The Bias calls on everyone to challenge unconscious bias or gender stereotyping.

Gemma said: “I still occasionally deal with someone – usually a man – who doesn’t realise I am indeed the person they need to speak to. There is still some bias in the transport industry, but it is improving all the time and I have the benefit and backing of a brilliant employer. “CSG is very supportive of equality, with women in senior roles throughout the organisation.

The company genuinely cares about helping people to achieve their potential, so it is a great place to work.” CSG operates the largest independent fleet of specialist waste management vehicles in the UK, providing domestic and industrial waste collection, recovery and processing services from 27 sites. Gemma gained her HGV licence and was a driver for a short while, before moving into transport management.

“As a transport co-ordinator I ensure all our vehicles are kept maintained and meet legal requirements, and I manage the routes and driver schedules,” she said. “I think it is a real advantage, that I have some experience in the driving seat, so I understand the challenges that our drivers face. “I also find it can be helpful to have a woman in this environment. Colleagues can talk to me and share concerns that they may not do with their male workmates, so I am able to support their mental health and wellbeing.

“I would love to see more women taking up roles in the transport sector and waste industry and would 100 per cent recommend it to other women.”

CSG employs more than 500 people, supporting a national network of waste treatment and recovery centres.

For more information, visit www.csg.co.uk