WORKPLACE
DIVERSITY
There are many
different behavioural
and management
styles that can be
very effective. I
stopped trying to
manage like a man a
long time ago
Barb Johnston, Air Canada Cargo
VIVIEN LAU, EXECUTIVE
DIRECTOR – COMMERCIAL,
HACTL
“I started my career in air
cargo when I joined Hactl’s
wholly owned subsidiary Hacis
in 2012. Before Hactl/ Hacis,
I was the Executive Assistant
to Group Managing Director
of Jardine Matheson Group,”
explains Lau of her entry into
cargo. “I don’t see that gender
puts me at a disadvantage,
but I believe that one must
prove herself in the role before
she can be awarded with
wider opportunities. For me,
joining the air cargo industry
was part of Jardine’s career
development, to second me to
Hactl/ Hacis. Since then, my
passion for this industry has
driven my performance.”
Lau observes growing
diversity in the air cargo
world. “Air cargo used to be a
male-dominated industry, but
I notice there are more females
joining nowadays.
“This is an interesting
industry – once you are in, it
seems it is diffi cult to leave. At
senior level, there are still more males than females, and they have
probably accumulated a wealth of experience and knowledge in
this industry to make them the top guys.
“As a matter of truth, the air cargo industry was created, built
and expanded by male counterparts for many years. That explains
why most of the leadership roles are dominated by males and why
it is diffi cult to identify female role models in this industry. It is
also true that as women, we have to work much harder to prove
ourselves and earn the respect and recognition.”
The industry would benefi t from greater diversity, Lau explains.
“Different genders see things differently. Women can bring in new
perspectives. Empowering women is to let them speak their minds
and share openly views that may be seen as unconventional.
Recognising female leadership and role models in this industry
will make an impact.”
She suggests how the industry could hope to achieve this.
“To build a sustainable air cargo industry, we need diversity and
inclusion to be supported by all stakeholders. I believe the trend
will gradually improve, as you do fi nd more females in middle
management. In Hactl, for Director level and above, we have 50%
females. In fact, at management trainee level, we do recruit and
have new female entrants to this industry.”
32 August 2019 www.airlogisticsinternational.com
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