Finding Their Path in Intralogistics
When we think about logistics and manufacturing sectors, we would usually associate it as being male-dominated. That’s not usually the case nowadays. In fact, women make up over 40% of the workforce in the supply chain sector, driving change and redefining the industry.
Despite making progress, the gender gap in the wider science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) roles remains prevalent. In fact, only 29.2% of the STEM workforce comprises women according to the latest gender gap report by the World Economic Forum. The gap widens further at the leadership level, with women representing just over a quarter of managerial and director positions.
With that being said, the number of women in STEM roles is increasing at a faster rate than those in non-STEM roles. A similar trend is observed in the intralogistics sector, with more women pursuing a career in the industry and progressing into leadership roles.
For a deeper perspective, hear from our employees as they share their experiences and what motivated them to build their logistics careers in this industry.
We spoke to three of our female managers in the Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa (APAC & MEA) region – Belinda Yeo, Head of Vertical Lift Module and Self-Driving Technology for APAC & MEA, Karla Botha, Products & Equipment Project Manager for South Africa, and Noemi Grazi, Logistics Solutions Project Manager for Australia.
Solving Complex Problems and Making a Difference
A key motivation for many who are drawn to the intralogistics sector is the opportunity to gain exposure to complex projects across diverse industries and markets early on in their careers. Our three female leaders also highlighted how the industry provides them with opportunities to apply the latest technologies in their work, allowing them to gain valuable knowledge and expertise along the way.
Just like many intralogistics professionals, the three ladies did not initially plan to pursue a career in logistics and intralogistics. It was an opportunity that came to them by pure chance.
Holding a master’s degree in industrial engineering, Noemi was an IT project consultant in Italy before moving to Australia in 2019 and joining SSI SCHAEFER. Having joined SSI SCHAEFER during the COVID-19 pandemic, she says, “I got a good vibe from my interviewers when applying for the role, and I knew I wanted to be part of SSI SCHAEFER.”
“While I knew what logistics is about, the reality is seeing is believing. It was very fascinating to see how everything works in front of you.”
Noemi Grazi, Project Manager, Logistics Solutions
Recalling her experience the first time she visited a warehouse, she says, “It was very fascinating to see how everything works in front of you. Once an order is created, you can see all the different phases in the material flow process.”
She adds, “Be it the induction of cartons and totes, the SSI Cuby shuttles that move into the aisles to pick up the items ordered, or the integration of SSI SCHAEFER’s equipment with other warehouse equipment such as carton erectors, carton lidders, and printers. It really impressed me, and warehousing is certainly one of the most interesting parts of the entire supply chain ecosystem.”
Both Karla and Noemi agree that no two days are the same at SSI SCHAEFER, and they enjoy the dynamic nature of their work.
Noemi says, “Logistics may seem ordinary at first, but it becomes very interesting once you start going on-site. Seeing the warehouse physically is a totally different feeling compared to looking at the drawings through a computer. You aren’t always working at the same place. When I’m not in my Sydney office, I’ll be based at my clients’ warehouses that’s located in different parts of Australia.”
“Forging strong relationships with our stakeholders has led to valuable referrals, helping us to secure even more business for the company. This is when I know I’m truly making an impact.”
Karla Botha, Project Manager, Products & Equipment
For Karla, curiosity is key. She finds fulfillment in learning something new. Starting out as a Project & Sales Coordinator and now a Project Manager, Karla says, “I’m constantly learning from every project which I take on, as each project provides me with valuable takeaways. It's about applying the lessons learned from past projects to subsequent ones to achieve even greater results. I’m proud to be making an impact for SSI SCHAEFER through managing these projects!”
Noemi enjoys wearing multiple hats. She occasionally supports the IT team as a systems integration tester. In this role, she provides feedback from an end-user perspective (such as identifying potential gaps in the user experience) and ensures that the IT systems meet the client’s specifications.
More Women are Joining the Intralogistics Sector
With over 20 years of sales experience, Belinda grew to develop a passion for the product that she was selling and has never looked back since then.
Belinda’s journey at SSI SCHAEFER began with the launch of the vertical lift module, SSI LOGIMAT®, in APAC & MEA. She subsequently progressed to become the regional product lead for both the SSI LOGIMAT and self-driving technologies.
As she reflects on her career, Belinda shares how the logistics sector has evolved over the past two decades due to technological advancements in automation. She says, “We’re at a turning point for Logistics 4.0. More businesses are investing in automated warehouses after the COVID-19 pandemic and it’s an exciting time to be in as an intralogistics professional.”
Belinda stays abreast of the latest technologies available in the market and collaborates closely with the product management team to improve SSI SCHAEFER’s offerings.
A firm believer in hands-on learning, she shares that one way she gained her expertise as a product specialist is through visiting SSI SCHAEFER’s different production sites and clients’ warehouses.
She recalls how seeing a self-driving vehicle at an exhibition in Germany in the mid-2010s sparked her interest in the machine. That led her to read all the available materials at that time as well as learn from colleagues across the globe about the product itself.
“We must groom the next generation of intralogistics professionals. I’m willing to share my knowledge with my colleagues as I want to pay it forward and make SSI SCHAEFER even better in what it does.”
Belinda Yeo, Head of Vertical Lift Module and Self-Driving Technology APAC & MEA
It was through SSI SCHAEFER’s in-house training program in Graz, Austria that Belinda picked up the skills and competencies required to become a trainer. She regularly conducts product training for the sales and technical teams on the products she manages.
SSI SCHAEFER: An Equal Opportunities Employer
At SSI SCHAEFER, everyone is given equal opportunities to succeed. Our talent acquisition and reward schemes are guided by performance, fostering a fair and inclusive workplace without any form of discrimination.
Karla and Noemi, who both began their intralogistics careers at SSI SCHAEFER, expressed their gratitude for the guidance they received from colleagues and the opportunities provided by their managers for their professional growth.
Karla shares how much she values the open and supportive environment at SSI SCHAEFER—she would never hesitate to ask questions, knowing that her colleagues would always be willing to help. Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, Karla recalls how her colleague Ronaldo Vital, Design Engineering Manager, who’s based at the Dubai, UAE office, would patiently guide her over the phone in her early years with SSI SCHAEFER.
Noemi, who started her career at SSI SCHAEFER as a Project Administrator and, is now a Project Manager, expresses her gratitude for the opportunities which she has received.
Noemi says, "I’m grateful to my managers for providing me with opportunities to oversee projects and take on cross-functional responsibilities. Furthermore, the opportunity to work with colleagues from all around the provides me exposure to diverse cultures.”
Belinda echoes this sentiment saying, "The autonomy to take ownership of my work and steer my personal growth brings me great satisfaction at work. I consider myself fortunate and appreciate SSI SCHAEFER for the opportunities to grow in my career."
Have the Right Mindset to Excel in Your Career
Belinda shares her advice for those who are looking to join the industry, “Success starts with having the right mindset—be open and willing to invest time and effort to learn. To excel, you need to have an in-depth understanding of your customers and provide them with a customized, value-added solution that addresses their needs.”
“Never give up as in the long run, you’ll gain a lot of satisfaction from your work. If you’re looking for a function to join, do consider project management. You’ll be in for a challenge as it’s so dynamic and interesting at the same time,” says Noemi.
Karla encourages new employees to take ownership of their work and not be afraid to ask questions. When faced with challenging situations, her advice is to remain calm, display kindness and empathy, and maintain a solution-focused approach. She adds, “It was through the project management certification boot camps (which all project management employees at SSI SCHAEFER undergo) that equipped me with the soft skills required for me to succeed in my career.”
Build Your Career with SSI SCHAEFER
At SSI SCHAEFER, we believe that an inclusive approach is essential for shaping the future of logistics. We are committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone, empowering individuals to excel in every facet of the industry.
If you’re keen to be part of our journey in shaping the future of the logistics industry, visit our careers page to explore exciting opportunities – find the role that fits your ambitions, your goals, and your vibe!
