The Big Logistics Diversity Challenge develops supply chain professionals’ ability to collaborate, innovate and create game-changing solutions for the benefit of the sector.
That's the glowing endorsement by Richard Atkinson CBE, former senior commander of RAF combat forces and now academic fellow in supply chain management and engineering systems at Aston University.
The Birmingham-based university is a Big Logistics Diversity Challenge (BLDC) supporter organisation and, with women making up 56.5% of participants on the Supply Chain Management (Professional Practice) BSc Degree Apprenticeship, is leading the way for females in logistics and the supply chain.
Having been involved with the BLDC since its inception, Richard is an advocate for the event which is specifically designed to promote the importance of EDI across the logistics and warehousing industries.
Richard Atkinson CBE, former senior commander of RAF combat forces and now academic fellow in supply chain management and engineering systems at Aston University.
"Logistics has never been more important nor so much in the public eye – making lives better, keeping the nation moving and propelling the economy," Richard explains.
"The need for diversity and inclusion in our profession is profound; historically it is a male-dominated sector and the worse for it.
"Because of the nature of the profession it is also increasingly dependent on technology and automation and it is easy for the focus to be on these high-ticket items.
"But our most important high-ticket item is our people and if we truly demonstrate a commitment to include and value our people, we will attract a more diverse pool of talent and retain them, saving on the cost of recruitment."
"It's fundamental. Without diversity and inclusion we won't have diversity of thought; without diversity of thought, we won’t have innovation; without innovation we won’t have sustainable supply chains; and without sustainable supply chains, we won’t save the planet!"
A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), Chair of CILT West Midlands Region Committee and with more than 33 years' leadership experience, Richard knows employers get far more out of their teams if they are allowed to express their opinions and encouraged to challenge ideas.
That's why he champions BLDC as the perfect platform for organisations to not only recognise and reward employees with an adventurous day of fun, but to share best practice, network and help shape a more inclusive sector.
"BLDC is a fantastic way to bring companies together in a fun-filled and engaging way to build team skills, mutual respect and inclusivity. The event brings out the very best of people, which is then taken back to the workplace.
"It is also incredible value for money for companies big and small to send one team – or more – of five men and five women to not only interact and engage with other teams from all across the sector and country but network as well.
"BLDC is an opportunity for organisations to build confidence in colleagues which will revert to the workplace; boosting performance, professional wellbeing and mental health.
"Having attended, I can confidently testify to the fulfilment, engagement and learning colleagues young and old from across the profession benefit from and can take back to the workplace.
"It is worthy of note that there has been an increase in the number of senior executives taking part, demonstrating their commitment to inclusion and diversity and supporting their colleagues."
Multi-media specialists Nimble Media Ltd are once again partnering with Talent in Logistics (TiL) to stage this year's BLDC at Newark Showground, Nottinghamshire, on 23 June.
More than 300 industry personnel are expected to attend the BLDC and there is a growing number of supporting organisations recognising the event's credentials.
As in previous years, the 2022 BLDC chosen charity is international development organisation, Transaid, of which Richard is an Ambassador.
For more information about the BLDC, please contact 01780 432930 or send an email.
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