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Nachrichten, Termine, Experten
Nachrichten, Termine, Experten
The logistics industry is one of Germany’s key economic sectors—yet women remain significantly underrepresented in its leadership ranks. To explore the reasons behind this imbalance, Prof. Dr. Fridtjof Langenhan and Prof. Dr. Friedwart Lender, together with students from the Master’s degree program in Supply Chain Management and Logistics at Hof University of Applied Sciences, conducted an in-depth study. The newly published study, entitled “Strategies for Attracting and Promoting Female Leaders in the Logistics Sector: Results of a Study at Hof University of Applied Sciences,” identifies persistent barriers faced by women in leadership roles.
The findings present a clear picture: while women hold around 29 percent of leadership positions across all industries in Germany, their share in the logistics sector is only about 19 percent. “Compared to other sectors of the economy, the logistics industry shows a particularly pronounced underrepresentation of women in leadership roles,” emphasizes Prof. Dr. Fridtjof Langenhan. Against this backdrop, the study analyzes both the causes of this imbalance and the factors influencing women’s willingness to pursue leadership positions in logistics. Special attention is given to the Upper Franconia (Hochfranken) region, which is additionally shaped by location-specific challenges.
Scientifically Sound Mixed-Methods Approach
Methodologically, the study follows a mixed-methods approach. It combines a systematic literature review with two standardized online surveys of female logistics graduates and master’s students at Hof University of Applied Sciences (n = 105), as well as a semi-structured expert interview. “It was important to us to bring together quantitative and qualitative perspectives in order to gain as nuanced a picture of the situation as possible,” explains Prof. Dr. Friedwart Lender.
The results highlight that rigid working and leadership models, a male-dominated corporate culture, shortcomings in work–family balance, and a lack of targeted development programs and female role models represent key barriers.
Clear Practical Recommendations
At the same time, the study identifies concrete starting points for improvement. Flexible leadership models, a healthy work–life balance, transparent career paths, professional development opportunities, and mentoring programs are seen as essential prerequisites for sustainably increasing the share of female leaders in logistics. “The empirical findings clearly show that structural changes and targeted support instruments must go hand in hand,” notes Prof. Dr. Lender.
Based on its findings, the study derives practice-oriented recommendations aimed at companies as well as political and regional stakeholders. Drawing on survey results and research, it provides valuable impulses for attracting and promoting female leaders in logistics—both at the regional and national levels.
The study is freely available at:
https://doi.org/10.57944/1051-263
Prof. Dr. Friedwart Lender
Prof. Dr. Fridtjof Langenhan
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Economics / business administration, Traffic / transport
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