Co-op welcomes a new intake to its Women in Leadership programme for 2026, following the completion of the inaugural 2025 cohort, as part of the retailer’s commitment to develop and progress female talent in logistics – a sector often seen as male dominated.
Developed with learning and development provider Raise the Bar, the initiative launched in 2025 and provides aspiring female leaders and established managers with the skills, confidence and support to progress their careers. The first wave of participants has completed the course, with 12 colleagues graduating, achieving eight distinctions and four passes, while a further two are due to complete shortly.
Building on the success of the pilot, 10 colleagues have recently joined the next cohort, with the latest intake including a mix of Level 3 and Level 5 leadership apprenticeships, helping colleagues at different stages of their careers take the next step in their leadership journey. Whilst originally launched for colleagues in logistics, the scheme now also supports female talent across Co-op’s Supply Chain function.
Andy Wilmot, supply chain & logistics director at Co-op, said: “The success of this programme demonstrates the sheer strength of female talent we have across our Logistics and Supply Chain teams, which for too long has been a male dominated industry. Creating opportunities for women to develop, progress and thrive in leadership roles is not only the right thing to do, it helps us build stronger and more diverse teams that better reflect the communities we serve.
Having only been with the business for four months, I’ve been blown away by the energy, passion and determination shown by the women taking part in this programme, as well as the career journeys many of them have been on.
I’m delighted to see the achievements of our first cohort and look forward to seeing how the next wave of participants continues to strengthen and diversify our operation.”
The programme combines workshops, webinars, podcasts and one-to-one coaching, helping colleagues build leadership skills and professional confidence. Internal mentoring opportunities have also been introduced to further strengthen support networks and help build a community of female leaders across the business.
Clare Maclauchlan, logistics and supply chain development manager at Co-op, said: “It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the confidence, ambition and growth of the women who have taken part in the programme over the last 17 months. I’ve had the privilege of watching colleagues challenge themselves, support one another and step into opportunities they may not previously have considered.
What stands out most is the personal journeys behind the achievements. Many of these women have overcome significant challenges, and it’s been inspiring to see them grow in confidence and progress their careers.
As we welcome new participants, we’re focused on continuing to build a supportive community of alumni who can champion, inspire and support the next generation of female leaders across our business.”
One colleague who has benefited from the programme is Beatrice Dodan, Labour Management Lead at Co-op’s Avonmouth depot.
Beatrice explained: “When I was 18, I moved to the UK with just £30 in my pocket and no real plan. I started working as a Warehouse Operative at Avonmouth and, over the years, worked in a variety of roles across the depot.
In 2024, while working in the Logistics Implementation Team, I applied for the Women in Leadership programme to continue developing my skills and confidence as a leader. During the programme, I was successful in securing a Level 5 role as Labour Management Lead – a milestone I’m proud of in my career.
To any woman considering a career in logistics, I’d say be confident in your abilities and don’t be afraid to take that next step. The industry has so much to offer, and we need more women to help shape its future.”
