Gender Balance: A Business Imperative, Not Just a Women's Issue
Wongiwe Ludidi, Senior Manager - Talent, Learning and Culture, CHEP Sub-Saharan Africa
For decades, discussions about gender balance in the workplace have often been framed as a women's issue. However, achieving true gender parity is not just about fairness—it is an economic necessity. Diverse teams drive innovation, enhance decision-making and improve financial performance. At CHEP, we recognise that gender balance benefits everyone, which is why we continue to invest in initiatives that promote equity in our workforce.
The economic case for gender balance
Recent findings underscore that gender inequality has tangible economic costs. The World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report 2024 reveals that while 68.5% of the global gender gap has been closed, at the current pace, full parity will not be reached for another 134 years. This statistic highlights that the slow progress is not merely a social shortfall but a missed opportunity to unlock billions in economic potential.
Gender-diverse teams have been shown to drive better decision-making and innovation, and narrowing these gaps could significantly boost global GDP. Research consistently shows that companies with gender-diverse leadership teams outperform their less diverse counterparts. A McKinsey report found that businesses with representation of women exceeding 30% percent are significantly more likely to financially outperform those with 30% or less. The reason is simple: different perspectives lead to better problem-solving and stronger business outcomes.
Yet, despite these benefits, women remain underrepresented in technical and operational roles, particularly in industries like supply chain and logistics. To close this gap, businesses must move beyond policies that focus solely on women's advancement and instead create inclusive environments that allow all employees—regardless of gender—to thrive.
How CHEP is driving change
At CHEP, we recognise that gender balance is not just a goal—it is a strategic priority that strengthens our operations and helps us build a more resilient workforce. Our efforts go beyond rhetoric; they are embedded in our hiring, training and leadership development programmes.
1. Breaking Barriers in Technical Roles
The logistics and supply chain industries have traditionally been male-dominated, particularly in technical roles. Challenging this norm is the appointment of our first female logger driver—a specialised role in timber handling and sawmilling. This milestone recognises our efforts towards increasing women's representation in technical roles, aligning with our parent company, Brambles' target of having 12% women in our service centres.
2. Developing Women in Supply Chain
The operational space presents unique challenges for women, from managing large teams to navigating traditionally male-dominated environments. To address these challenges, we launched the Women in Supply Chain Development Programme, which equips female employees with both technical and leadership skills. Currently, seven women are on this journey, preparing to take on future leadership roles in our operations.
3. Investing in the Next Generation of Women Leaders
We believe that long-term change starts with nurturing young talent. Since 2020, our Graduate Development Programme has focused on providing opportunities for women across various business functions. Now in its fifth year, the programme has supported nine young women, helping them gain industry experience and positioning them for leadership roles within CHEP. This initiative strengthens our leadership pipeline while advancing our broader diversity, equity and inclusion ambitions.
Gender balance is a shared responsibility
Gender balance is not about giving women an advantage—it is about creating equal opportunities for everyone. For real progress to happen, we need buy-in from all employees, including men, who play a crucial role as allies, mentors and champions of inclusion. When we work together, we build stronger teams, drive better business outcomes and contribute to a more equitable society.
At CHEP, we are committed to making gender balance a reality. It is not just the right thing to do—it is the smart thing to do.