Breaking Barriers in a Traditionally Male-Dominated Industry
For decades, India’s logistics and supply chain sector has been heavily male-dominated, from leadership roles to on-ground operations. However, change is underway—and women are playing a pivotal role in reshaping the industry.
As an experienced leader in logistics and freight management, Tanvi Naik has worked with multinational freight forwarders in India and the UK before returning home to join her family business. Starting as a management trainee, she rapidly climbed the ranks to become the youngest board member of Reema Transport.
Her journey reflects the evolution of Indian logistics, where women are emerging as industry leaders, innovators, and changemakers. In this exclusive conversation with Women Entrepreneurs Review, Tanvi shares her experiences, insights, and vision for the future of women in logistics.
Curiosity: The Key to Overcoming Industry Challenges
How has curiosity helped you navigate challenges in logistics?
Working in the UK logistics industry before transitioning to India, I noticed stark differences—particularly in pricing, vehicle placement, and operational efficiency.
🚚 India’s Competitive Edge: Lower logistics and manufacturing costs make India an attractive destination for setting up plants.
💡 Cultural Perceptions: In the UK, logistics professionals—including courier staff from DHL and FedEx—were seen as skilled professionals. In contrast, Indian truck drivers were often perceived as unpolished laborers.
🔍 Bridging the Gap: This realization drove my passion to redefine industry standards, upskill drivers, and enhance service professionalism.
📢 Transforming Driver Training at Reema Transport
✅ Professional Grooming – Introducing uniforms, ID cards, and background checks for drivers.
✅ Skill Enhancement – Implementing GDP & CT-PAT certifications for cargo handling & compliance.
✅ Industry Perception Shift – Elevating truck driving from a labor job to a skilled profession.
💡 “Trucking company offices had a rough culture, far from corporate environments. It was challenging to instill professionalism, but over time, we saw a positive transformation—polished drivers, better vehicles, and a more structured industry.” – Tanvi Naik
Challenges & Opportunities for Women in Logistics
What unique challenges and opportunities have you faced as a woman entrepreneur?
🚧 Challenges:
- Talent Shortage – Logistics isn’t viewed as a lucrative career path, leading to a lack of skilled workforce.
- Gender Bias – Earlier, women were sidelined in meetings & industry events, receiving less access to critical insights.
- Industry Perception – Women truck drivers remain rare, and even female taxi drivers still surprise people—highlighting the need for a mindset shift.
🚀 Opportunities:
- Corporate Evolution – More women are now leading transport, pharma, and manufacturing industries.
- Changing Mindsets – Gender diversity is becoming more accepted in logistics workplaces.
- Networking & Collaboration – Platforms like AITWA (All India Transport Welfare Association – Women’s Wing) are actively supporting women entrepreneurs in logistics.
💡 “The logistics industry is evolving. Women must step up, support one another, and claim their space in leadership.” – Tanvi Naik
The Future of Women in Logistics & Supply Chain
How can we ensure greater representation and leadership for women?
✅ Mentorship & Networking – Women should connect, collaborate, and uplift each other.
✅ Encouraging Careers in Logistics – Schools & colleges must promote logistics & supply chain courses.
✅ Industry Support – Organizations should create pathways for women in leadership & technical roles.
📈 What’s Next?
🚀 MoA Expansion – Entering Tier 1 & Tier 2 cities with influencer marketing & experiential campaigns.
🤖 AI Integration – Leveraging data-driven solutions to streamline operations & decision-making.
“The era of women in passive roles is over—today’s women are visionaries, innovators, and decision-makers.” – Tanvi Naik
Work-Life Integration: Leading with Balance
How do you balance family, business, and leadership responsibilities?
As a new mother returning to work, I understand the challenges of balancing professional and personal life.
✔ Building a Support System – Creating a strong team at work & home makes a huge difference.
✔ Smart Work Over Hard Work – Using automation & digital tools to optimize tasks.
✔ Open Conversations – Advocating for flexible work policies & transparent discussions on work-life balance.
💡 “Women are naturally skilled multitaskers. We can balance careers and families—we just need the right support and mindset.” – Tanvi Naik
Final Message: Empower, Collaborate, and Lead
📢 Advice to Women in Logistics & Beyond:
✔ Read More – Stay updated on industry trends & innovations.
✔ Network More – Connect with fellow women leaders & decision-makers.
✔ Collaborate More – Support & uplift other women professionals.
✔ Challenge Yourself – Step outside your comfort zone & embrace new opportunities.
🚀 “Women have already made a strong mark across industries—let’s continue to grow, inspire, and redefine success together.” – Tanvi Naik
🌟 Want to Learn More About the Future of Women in Logistics?
📩 Connect with Tanvi Naik & Reema Transport Today!
