Gender divide closing in freight industry

How are women faring in the SA freight market? Before answering that question, we have to look at recent findings on a more global scale. As we published in a recent edition of sister electronic publication FTWOnline, according to the GMI Ratings, women hold 11% of board seats globally. Norway (36.1%), Sweden (27.0%) and Finland (26.8%) continue to lead the developed world in their percentage of female directors. And significant increases in women’s representation have now pushed France into fourth in the world, with 18.3%. But, surprisingly, SA also ranked at the top-end of this rating – with a position of fifth in the world, and with a proud claim to 17.9% female representation on the boards. This result put SA ahead of most countries, developed and emerging. So, on a global barometer, it seems to be blue skies and sunshine for SA women in the job market. And, to get answers related to the freight industry in particular, FTW approached two people who should be in the know, female executives of two of the country’s recruitment companies which specialise in the freight industry. Looking at salaries in the freight industry for women compared to men, Terri Smith, MD of Tiger Recruitment, told FTW that the big salary differential for women of yesteryear is no more. “The salaries for women are becoming more and more on par,” she said, “if not often higher than that of their male counterparts. “Women are reaching management status and higher level job satisfaction at a staggering rate, making way for an advanced female dominating market.” Is there a big salary differential for women in the freight industry? “Not at all,” Jackie Roberts, director and partner of Bertlie Recruitment, told FTW. “There is no preference for either male or female candidates, as our clients are looking for candidates who have the best skills and experience.” And these are scarce talents. Especially in a currently booming jobs market where demand is tending to outstrip supply, she added. Also, it is one where companies that have managed to acquire the necessarily qualified and experienced staff are tending to tie in their loyalty with highly attractive packages. And these packages are blind to gender difference, according to Roberts. If you’re good, she suggested, it doesn’t matter whether you’re male or female. INSERT & CAPTION 1 Our clients are looking for candidates who have the best skills and experience − male or female. – Jackie Roberts INSERT & CAPTION 2 The big salary differential for women of yesteryear is no more. – Terri Smith