Boldly persist: Turning challenges into opportunities

A well-known leader in the Indian transportation sector, Dr Sharmila occupies the top position among the women executives in the Indian logistics industry and is probably the only woman leader in the Projects Logistics business. A Commerce graduate from Mumbai who went on to complete Ph.D. in Business Administration and Management from Keisie International University, Dr Sharmila had worked as the head of projects (Oil and Gas) at Panalpina from 2006 to 2013 and served briefly as an independent director at Hindustan Oil Exploration Company (HOEC) before joining Bertling Logistics in 2014.

Her journey in the logistics industry has been as challenging as it is inspirational. Executing difficult jobs excites her. Particularly challenging was the oil and gas sector, particularly at a time when not many professionals were keen to work on the HBJ pipeline, India’s first cross country gas pipeline. “I grabbed the chance to prove myself, persevered, remained steadfast, and eventually succeeded,” she reminisces. Dr Sharmila draws inspiration from her father. “My father was one of India’s pioneers in the construction industry and his role in shaping my career cannot be underestimated.” She recalls. Having opened the doors of opportunity for women in this field, she encourages the next generation of female professionals to take up careers in this industry. Dr. Sharmila states that the challenges she faced on her way were numerous. Each challenge has only strengthened her resolve and made her a professional who is driving the future of the industry.

Excerpts from the interview with one of the renowned names in the logistics industry:

What are challenges and opportunities for women in the shipping and logistics industry?

 Many roles in shipping and logistics have traditionally been perceived as requiring physical presence in ports, warehouses, and operational sites—leading to fewer opportunities for women. However, the industry is evolving rapidly, presenting new opportunities: Technologydriven logistics is creating more roles in AI, data analytics, and supply chain management where women can excel. Diversity and inclusion initiatives are gaining traction, making workplaces more supportive. Flexible work arrangements and leadership training programmes are encouraging more women to rise in the industry.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to enter the sector?

To young women looking to build a career in logistics, my message is simple: be bold, be persistent, and embrace every challenge as an opportunity to grow. The logistics industry is dynamic and constantly evolving, making it an exciting field with immense potential. Invest in learning, develop expertise in technology, data analytics, and supply chain management and stay adaptable and innovative.

What challenges did you face as a woman working in the cargo and logistics industry?

How did you overcome them? The problem is not really about numbers but about understanding the value — value for shareholders, customers, and society that could be created with greater gender balance in the increasingly critical supply chain function across industries. I have learned to overcome many of the challenges faced by tackling them head-on and not accepting defeat, I must recognise the role of many of my male peers in helping me face them.