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Helen Kitchen
Deputy Business Editor
P.ublished 21st May 2026
business

Northern Talent Secures Spots On National Transport And Logistics Shortlist

Image by Nick Collins from Pixabay
Image by Nick Collins from Pixabay
A cohort of business leaders from across the North of England has been named as finalists for the 2026 everywoman in Transport & Logistics Awards.

The awards, now in their 19th year and delivered in association with DSV and Amazon Relay, recognise female professionals working within the UK's transport and logistics infrastructure. According to sector data, women currently comprise 27% of the 2.5 million-strong transport workforce and 20% of the two million individuals employed in logistics and warehousing. Combined, the two sectors generate approximately £192.9 billion annually for the UK economy.

Finalists representing Yorkshire, the North West, and the North East have secured nominations across several corporate and operational categories following a rigorous judging process.

Emma Barrowcliffe, general manager at Leeds-headquartered supermarket group Asda
Emma Barrowcliffe, general manager at Leeds-headquartered supermarket group Asda
In the supply chain and warehousing disciplines, Northern finalists include Naomi Harryman-Hassan, a consultant at Newcastle-based Hatmill, and Paula Dooley, mail access and asset manager for Whistl UK in Doncaster. In the warehousing category, Sarah Jones, senior people business partner at The Co-operative Group in Manchester, is shortlisted alongside Emma Barrowcliffe, general manager at Leeds-headquartered supermarket group Asda.

Lisa Johnson, vice president of global public affairs for autonomous delivery firm Starship Technologies in Leeds
Lisa Johnson, vice president of global public affairs for autonomous delivery firm Starship Technologies in Leeds
The region's automotive and technological sectors are represented by Daisy Moore, a service technician at the JCT600 Audi dealership in Doncaster, who is named in the Apprentice category. Lisa Johnson, vice president of global public affairs for autonomous delivery firm Starship Technologies in Leeds, is shortlisted for the Tech and AI Innovator award.

North West logistics operations achieved multiple nominations, particularly in Liverpool, where entrepreneurial and leadership finalists include Jodie McDonald (founder of Fetchmycaruk), Lauren Crosbie (head of supply chain global operations at retail giant B&M), and Jennifer Swain (director of talent, development and HR at Road to Logistics). Amanda Unsworth, CEO of Trinity Logistics in Liverpool, is named as a finalist in the Freight Leader category, while Tony Wilson, national MHE manager for B&M, is shortlisted for the Male Agent of Change award.

The winners will be announced at an industry ceremony at the Royal Lancaster London on Wednesday, 24 June 2026.

Every year, the calibre of nominations reminds us just how much exceptional talent exists across this industry and this year's finalists are no exception. At a time when the sector is being reshaped by automation, AI and the drive towards net zero, it's more important than ever to ensure women are leading that transformation. These finalists are doing exactly that and we hope their stories inspire the next generation to see transport and logistics as a sector where they can thrive.
Nicole Goodwin and Sophie Catto, Joint Managing Directors of AllBright everywoman


Congratulations to all of this year’s finalists, and to all of our DSV colleagues who have been shortlisted, you all represent the very best of our industry. Your leadership, ambition and impact are helping to redefine what transport and logistics looks like today and for the future. As a sector, we have a responsibility to create more opportunities for women at every level. At DSV, we’re committed to building an environment where people can thrive, develop and lead. Celebrating these achievements is an important step in continuing that progress.
Surinder Dubro, Managing Director, UK Contract Logistics at DSV


At Amazon Relay, we believe that a stronger, more diverse workforce drives a stronger industry. We are proud to partner with the everywoman in Transport & Logistics Awards to celebrate the outstanding women who are shaping the future of our sector. This year's finalists demonstrate the incredible depth of female talent across transport and logistics, and their achievements remind us why championing diversity and inclusion is not just the right thing to do - it's essential for the continued growth and innovation of our industry.
Vignesh Solairaj, Director, Supply Chain at Amazon Relay