Women's Day: HR Leaders on Mentorship's Transformative Impact

By: WE Staff

Mentorship in Logistics: Go Beyond Guidance to Create Exposure, Credibility & Advocacy

Mili Chikhal, Head of Human Resources Indian Subcontinent, Dachser India: A globally experienced HR leader with over 20 years of expertise in people strategy, cultural transformation, and leadership development, workforce planning, and building inclusive workplaces. 

Which one mentorship program best supports women’s advancement?

In logistics, mentorship must extend beyond guidance to create exposure, credibility, and advocacy. The most effective programs connect emerging women leaders with senior operational and commercial leaders who can offer both insight and opportunity.

Cross-functional mentorship—across operations, sales, and branch management—helps women understand the full business ecosystem. Equally important is sponsorship, where leaders actively recommend women for strategic assignments and leadership roles. Because credibility in logistics is built through operational experience and visibility, mentorship programs that intentionally create these opportunities become powerful enablers of women’s advancement.

 How has this mentorship program transformed women’s careers?

Structured mentorship and sponsorship programs have transformed women’s careers in logistics by building confidence, visibility, and leadership readiness. Exposure to operational decision-making and strategic discussions strengthens capability and credibility. Mentorship also expands professional networks and connects women to leadership forums where opportunities often emerge.

Over time, many transition from specialized roles into broader leadership positions with greater influence. Beyond individual growth, these programs create a cultural shift—demonstrating that women can lead complex operations and strategic initiatives. In doing so, mentorship strengthens the leadership pipeline and helps shape a more inclusive future for the logistics industry.