Making the cut: Kettering woman who swapped hairdressing for logistics shares her success

Lauren, who is an ambassador for careers awareness campaign Generation Logistics, began her career training to be a hairdresser, but a part-time job in logistics saw her cut loose for a change of career and she’s not looked back since. Now, Lauren is sharing her career journey and why she encourages other young women to consider logistics as a way to develop a long term, successful career.

Lauren first dipped her toes into logistics in a temporary part-time role; however, after being drawn to the fast-paced environment, opportunity for teamwork, and the sense of achievement that comes from seeing operations run smoothly and efficiently, Lauren was hooked. “I’d had my heart set on becoming a hairdresser for years, but in hindsight, I would not have progressed as far as I have in logistics in comparison to hairdressing; I am so thankful to have made the switch enabling me to work my way up the CEVA hierarchy," she says.

Now Head of Operations at CEVA Logistics’ Kettering site, Lauren is responsible for leading a team of 9 direct employees and is also responsible for 204 indirect employees, focusing on safety, performance, and continuous improvement. Alongside her role, Lauren is completing her Level 7 Senior Leader Master’s Degree to enhance her strategic thinking and leadership capabilities and advance her career.

Since joining CEVA 12 years ago, Lauren has gained fundamental understanding of the value of every role in the supply chain. “Even in the early stages, I could see logistics opportunities for everyone willing to learn and grow.” Lauren added.

Lauren demonstrated her willingness to develop at CEVA, taking the opportunities offered to her and progressing from a Team Leader to a Supervisor and now Head of Operations. “Looking back, I’m so glad I accepted that logistics part-time job all those years ago. Logistics has offered me progression opportunities, challenges and purpose, all things that hairdressing couldn’t provide, hence I made the switch.”says Lauren.

The journey that Lauren has had while at CEVA has challenged her in various ways, but most importantly, enabled her to become a successful woman in logistics. “My journey proves that there’s no single path into this sector; if you’re open-minded, motivated, and

ready to learn, logistics can take you further than you ever expected. Don’t underestimate how broad logistics really is; it’s not only warehouses and trucks! Logistics needs more women, especially in Senior Management roles.”Lauren emphasised.

Bethany Windsor, Programme Director at Generation Logistics, comments: “Lauren’s career into logistics is inspirational and shows that prior experience doesn’t impact your future job. Your transferable skills matter more than you may think, and it is essential to utilise those to the best of your ability.

“As Lauren’s career demonstrates, the sector can offer opportunities for people with different backgrounds, and in many cases resulting in a career for life. Whether your qualifications may not be an exact match, or you have no qualifications at all, logistics is a sector that offers training and development on the job - all that’s required is a strong work ethic and a passion for growth.”

Mike Weaver, Managing Director for Contract Logistics, UK, Ireland and the Nordics, CEVA Logistics adds: “Laure​n’s journey is a fantastic example of how logistics offers genuine career progression for people from all backgrounds. At CEVA, we are committed to developing our people, nurturing talent, and creating opportunities for colleagues to grow, lead and thrive. Lauren’s success reflects both her determination and the supportive culture we strive to foster across our sites.”

For those wanting to find out more about the opportunities available, take this quiz to see which role in logistics could fit with your future: www.generationlogistics.org/find-your-future/