She's RHA - Celebrating women in the haulage industry

SHE's RHA

Launched by the Road Haulage Association in February 2016 - She's RHA supports women across the haulage industry.

The initiative aims to create awareness of women across the sector and consists of networking events and mentoring programmes.


In September 2016, over 40 women from the road haulage and logistics industry gathered for a She’s RHA networking event at Mercedes-Benz UK.  The initiative, sponsored by Mercedes-Benz Trucks, is designed to champion the challenges faced by women in the road transport industry. She’s RHA has been instrumental in connecting women in the sector, enabling them to meet, network and share best practice.  

Mike Belk, MD of Mercedes-Benz Trucks, welcomed the attendees by saying: “I wholly support the She’s RHA initiative which is already making great strides to encourage diversity in our industry.” 

CEO of the RHA, Richard Burnett asked the audience to consider ways in which they could grow and support the initiative: “There are a number of ways to get involved. Either by hosting a She’s RHA gathering or reaching out to local schools to encourage them to consider a career in haulage and logistics.”

Elaine Harries, MD of Action Express was invited to share her experiences and the challenges she faces working in the industry.  Commenting on her personal approach to a career in the road haulage sector, Elaine said: “I have never been prevented from doing what I set out to do in my career simply because I’m a woman.  The key is for people to recognise their skills and qualities and to embrace their differences, playing them to their advantage and channelling the energy and passion of each individual.”  

Jenny Tipping, HGV driver and CPC trainer for Manpower Logistics gave an inspirational talk, urging women to take gender out of the equation.  She said: “Driving skills, time management, communication skills and respect for your freight and vehicle are the key skills needed for this industry, these qualities are not gender specific.”

As a newly qualified driver, Kate Stacey came along to the She’s RHA event to network and seek advice and left with a job offer from Elaine Harries of Action Express.  Commenting on meeting Kate, Elaine said: “Kate will be a very welcome addition to the team. I actively support flexible working practices at Action Express.”

Pictured above: CEO of the RHA, Richard Burnett and Elaine Harries, MD of Action Express.

For more information about She’s RHA, please go to: www.rha.uk.net/events/shesrha

No comments yet