In recognition of International Women’s Day, HaulTech is celebrating one of its Directors, Clare Chidlow, who has succeeded in an industry that traditionally lacks diversity.
Clare began her professional career promoting and selling two-way radio systems to hauliers, before moving into haulage technology solutions with HaulTech. She said, “I had to create opportunities and capitalise on them to get to where I am today.” Clare’s hard work led to the next step in her career which involved introducing hauliers to the Transport Management System (TMS) at HaulTech. 16 years later, following an MBO, she became an Executive Director at the Staffordshire-based company.
For nearly 30 years HaulTech has specialised in enhancing and connecting business processes through their transport and warehouse software systems, along with vehicle CCTV and tracking hardware solutions. The company provides the UK’s most chosen bulk haulage software solution and continues to expand.
Over the years Clare has experienced situations where her gender has been seen as a negative despite her in-depth knowledge. She said, “Overcoming this takes time, patience and confidence”.
Having fought the stereotypes both professionally and personally, she has proved that diversity is welcome in haulage and technology. This is evident with HaulTech’s diverse and dedicated team which now boasts a 25% female workforce versus an industry average of 8%. The company’s leadership team has seen the Newcastle-under-Lyme-based technology provider experience huge growth.
Clare said, “I am so incredibly proud of the journey the business is on and the gateway it gives to inspire, motivate and empower others.”
Clare recommends any budding entrepreneur to “set goals for the short, medium, and long term, don’t give up, believe in yourself and eventually, you’ll find your path. However, don’t forget to give back and when you can make a change and a difference, you should.”
