Three female managing directors are grabbing the limelight within the forklift truck industry, each redefining what leadership looks like in within their own successful organisations.
Their individual journeys, brought to life through the UKMHA’s leadership series, offer a fresh insight into the women driving some of the sector’s most dynamic businesses.
Setting new standards for performance, team engagement, and workplace culture, they demonstrate the impact female executives can have . Their unique journeys have been brought to life for the first time here, as they share insights and advice for females considering a career in this dynamic sector.
The UKMHA’s female leadership series sets out to spotlight the remarkable women driving dynamic businesses in material handling sector forward. By sharing their stories through a series of interviews, the association aims to highlight their diverse career journeys, the insights they’ve gained, and the transformative impact they’re making within their businesses.
Rachel Moore, Managing Director, Jofson Ltd, began her career in the family business in the 1980s and now leads Jofson Ltd as one of the UK’s largest Mitsubishi dealers. Her leadership is defined by resilience, strategic vision and a focus on people.
Rachel said: “In the early days I definitely felt I had to prove myself, not just within the industry but among my own peer group. What kept me going was belief: belief in myself and belief in the team around me. That resilience has shaped who I am today.”
She added: “Women are now represented across all areas of the industry, including sales, engineering and technical roles. My advice would be to work hard, learn from setbacks and don’t let anyone else define your limits.”
Zoe Ferriday, Managing Director, HFT Forklifts, started as an apprentice in 1997 and has progressed to Managing Director of HFT Forklifts. Under her guidance, the company has won multiple Mitsubishi awards.
Zoe said: “When I started, I was told I’d never understand the technical side, but that only motivated me more. Those moments didn’t define me; they pushed me. Today the industry is evolving fast, and diversity is a huge part of that shift.”
She added: “This sector is exciting, fast-paced and full of opportunity. There are so many different roles and customers. It’s an industry where you can really build a rewarding career.”
Gillian Reed, Managing Director, STILL Materials Handling, transitioned from retail banking into the material handling sector, overcoming the challenges of entering a new industry to become Managing Director of STILL Materials Handling.
Gillian said: “I changed career to test myself and to see if I was good enough to succeed elsewhere. Taking that leap was the best decision I ever made.”
She added: “The industry today is more diverse, more inclusive and more reflective of society. My hope is that in the future we don’t even need to discuss it, because inclusivity will simply be the norm.”
These leaders highlight the growing recognition that female executives bring qualities that strengthen organisations, including emotional intelligence, resilience, integrity and effective communication. Their leadership drives performance while promoting flexible, supportive and innovative working cultures.
Rob Fisher, UKMHA CEO, said: “Historically, the industry has struggled with diversity, but that is changing. What matters is bringing the right people with the right skills. Gender is no longer a barrier. Rachel, Zoe, and Gillian have each followed unique paths and bring energy, creativity, and exceptional leadership to the sector.”
For more information about Rachel, Zoe, and Gillian, visit https://ukmha.org.uk/news/celebrating-the-success-of-female-leadership-in-the-industry/
