Once considered a “male-oriented” sector, road transport is now increasingly led by women. IRU dedicates the 2025 International Women’s Day to all the women driving road transport forward.
For this International Women’s Day, we are spotlighting some of the female leaders breaking down barriers.
Here are four women setting the tone.
Anna Grönlund
One of IRU’s two vice presidents, both women, and the Deputy Managing Director of IRU member Sveriges Bussföretag in Sweden, Anna Grönlund’s passion for passenger transport has deep-seated roots.
Why she joined: “I joined the road transport sector through my background as a journalist and PR consultant. I applied for the role of Head of Communications at the Swedish Bus and Coach Federation and later became the manager.
“This has allowed me to combine my communications expertise with my passion for sustainable communities and the joy and benefits of working with our members.
“I am an organisational person at heart. I gain energy from creating structures and building relationships with talented and engaged industry colleagues.
“Perhaps my father’s influence also played a part. He was the CEO of a Swedish public transport authority. He loved his work and still works as a consultant and as the chairman of a bus and coach company.
How to attract more women: “To attract more women to our sector, we need to share the exciting, meaningful work we do, how we contribute to a sustainable and resilient future – and that we dare to be visible and ambitious.”
Iro Doumani
Also an IRU Vice President, as well as the General Manager of IRU member OFAE in Greece, Iro Doumani is fully aware of the critical role of goods transport and the key to change.
Why she joined: “Road transport is the backbone of the economy. It plays a crucial role in our everyday lives, ensuring that goods and people reach their destinations safely.
“As our industry evolves, we can build greener and more efficient transport networks to better meet the needs of society.
“Once I realised the potential, I knew I wanted to be part of this positive change that keeps the world moving.
How to attract more women: “For that to happen, we need change. And change begins with education!
“By increasing access to training, offering scholarships, and providing mentorship, we can break down barriers and inspire more women to pursue careers in road transport.
“Showcasing successful women in the industry will encourage the next generation to see it as a rewarding career path.
“I’m committed to being part of this change and driving #inclusivity through education.”
Asli Calik
One of IRU’s four women board members, and an Executive Advisor to IRU member TOBB’s Board of Directors in Türkiye, Asli Calik is no stranger to passenger and goods transport.
Why she joined: “Road transport is vital to the economy and the sustainable mobility of people. It directly impacts people’s lives, making it incredibly rewarding.
“I grew up in this world – my family ran freight and passenger transport businesses in Türkiye.
“To me, road transport is dynamic, challenging, and offers a non-traditional work environment.
“It’s built on teamwork and community – making it especially fulfilling for those who value collaboration.
“These factors fuelled my passion for the industry – and my commitment to staying in it.
How to attract more women: “We need advanced IT and intelligent transport systems to improve safety, efficiency, and our industry's reputation.
“Governments must modernise infrastructure, streamline borders, and enhance traceability.
“The industry must continue to uphold strict safety measures, combat harassment, and foster inclusivity.
“Flexible work options, mentorship, and confidence-building initiatives are also key to bringing in more women.
“IRU’s awareness campaigns and success stories will drive change – a safer, more inclusive sector will encourage greater female participation.”
Elisabeth Post
IRU’s fourth female board member, and the President of IRU member Transport en Logistiek Nederland, from the Netherlands, Elisabeth Post recognises the indispensable role of the sector’s workforce.
Why she joined: “I fell in love with road transport first and foremost because of its people.
“They take pride in their craft and the value they bring to society.
“They are hardworking – never ones to complain.
“They literally drive our economy forward and constantly ask themselves: ‘How can it – even the seemingly impossible – be done?’
How to attract more women: “We need to have a safer, cleaner work environment with the necessary facilities.
“This applies to everyone in our incredible sector – women and men alike.”
International Women’s Day puts the spotlight on a key challenge facing road transport: low rates of female participation.
This is not a new challenge.
However, change has been slow. How can we accelerate it?
This is the question a group of female IRU New Industry Shapers tackled over the course of three virtual dialogues.
Read their stories, insights and solutions to accelerate change in the Women Driving Change report.