In 2022, Fiona Dempster, head of logistics at PG Paper Company Ltd, was crowned the winner of the Freight Leader Award at the Everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards.

This year (2023), Dempster was selected to be on the judging panel for the awards that showcase women’s vital contribution to transport and logistics across all sectors, choosing this year’s winners.

We caught up with Dempster to find out more about the impact of winning an Everywoman Award and her experience as an awards judge.

FN: What impact has the award win had on you?

FD: Winning the award was so humbling and very unexpected. Especially when I met all the fantastic candidates through the judging process and on the day of the event.

From a personal perspective, I was truly humbled to get that recognition in what has always been a very male-dominated industry. To have events that showcase women’s talent, drive, and ambition in the industry is amazing.

The win has taken me forward. Professionally, it has presented me with different opportunities. I always want to be the best I can be; I’m never set on what I’ve achieved and I’m always aiming for the next big thing.

It’s also given me recognition and expanded my network – people have reached out to me since winning the award that probably wouldn’t have if I hadn’t won the award.

FN: What do you consider your main accomplishments since your award win?

FD: This year, I’ve had the opportunity to travel globally as part of the company growth – building the business has been a central part of my achievements.

I’ve been out visiting warehouses and other team members. We’re an international trading company - our headquarters are in Scotland, but we have warehouses across the world. It’s important to keep that connection and relationship going to keep people motivated.

Another significant achievement for me is being asked to judge the Everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards.

FN: Amongst the finalists, what are the main things that stood out?

FD: People’s resilience and energy were the main things that stood out. I came across so many people who didn’t realise how good they were.

It’s shone a light on the industry as a whole – there’s so much talent and so many lovely people out there - I wanted to give them all awards!

The encouragement from the Everywoman team, the judging panel and the whole process were amazing to be part of.

FN: To anyone considering getting involved with the awards, what would you say to them?

FD: Just do it - putting someone forward for an award is the biggest honour.

From my experience, I had no idea I was nominated by the PG team, which made me a winner before I had even won.

I would highly encourage everyone to get involved.

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The 2023 Everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards winners will be announced at the awards ceremony held on June 28 at The Londoner, Leicester Square, London.

For further information, or to book tickets, visit the Everywoman in Transport and Logistics website.