Atherstone woman wins Woman of the Year award

A businesswoman working in Atherstone, Louise Whitehouse, has been announced Woman of the Year Award at the 2020 Amazon everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards.

In an extraordinary year for the industry, the everywoman in Transport and Logistics awards celebrated 15 exceptional individuals working in the transport and logistics sector, with Louise Whitehouse taking the top prize.

All the awards are designed to champion the achievements of the recipients, showcasing them as inspiring role models to the next generation of female talent.

The winners encompassed a wide range of career experiences and journeys, revealing the breadth of opportunities available for women in an industry so often associated with men. These individuals not only make positive contributions to the businesses for which they work, but also help community initiatives and 'pay it forward' by supporting and mentoring young talent.

The 'Woman of the Year' award was handed to Louise Whitehouse, Managing Director at Fleet Maintenance Europe at FedEx Express.

Louise started her career in 1988 and became the youngest ever depot manager, the first step in a career defined by breaking glass ceilings and which has resulted in her becoming the first female Managing Director of FedEX, based in Atherstone.

She was singled out for her total commitment to helping other women succeed in the industry. She has developed mentoring and apprenticeship schemes within the business and is constantly trying to engage young women in transport and logistics as a career.

A firm believer in using her position to to raise other women up and enhance their career journey, Louise set up the Women's Network at FedEx to encourage female team members to share success stories and make vital connections with other women.

After receiving her prize Louise said "I was very humbled to receive the Transport & Logistics Woman of the Year 2020 award.

"This award is testament to the great work done by all the talented women I work with every day and the relentless commitment of FedEx Express to support gender diversity across the industry. I hope more young and diverse talent will recognise the exciting opportunities available and consider pursuing a career in the logistics industry.''

Maxine Benson MBE, Co-Founder of everywoman, commented "In our first ever online ceremony, we are thrilled to announce the winners of the 2020 Amazon everywoman in Transport & Logistics Awards.

"Never before has the value of the transport and logistics sector been so highlighted as in 2020, when we ceased to take our supply chains for granted.

"From those taking their first steps into the working world, to those women who have pioneered change and championed diversity throughout their long careers, our winners represent the outstanding talent that exists in the transport and logistics industry today.

"We are delighted to be able to celebrate the skill and dedication of these individuals, particularly in a year when the crucial role this sector plays has become so evident."

Stefano Perego, VP Europe Customer Fulfilment, Amazon said "A huge congratulations to all the finalists and winners at this year's Amazon everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards.

"Amazon is proud to support the everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards over the next three years and to recognise, highlight and celebrate the talented women who work and pioneer in this industry.

"As a company of builders who bring varying backgrounds, ideas, and points of view to inventing on behalf of our customers, we hope to inspire women to continue to drive innovation and new ways of thinking and to develop fulfilling careers by providing opportunities for those women."

For further information, please visit the everywoman awards website.