In a world where traditional gender roles often dictate career paths, Vandana Singh stands as an emblem of resilience and innovation. With nearly three decades in the aviation and logistics industry, she has risen to become the Director of Global Corporate Key Account Management Asia Pacific at Saudia Cargo, challenging conventions and redefining possibilities for women in leadership.
A Dream Redirected
Vandana’s story began with an ambitious dream of becoming a fighter pilot in the Indian Air Force—a dream that regulations in the 1990s did not support. Undeterred, she turned her focus to aviation and logistics, entering a field that was no less dominated by men. Her early career at Lufthansa Cargo set the stage for her rise, as she spent 15 years honing her expertise and building her reputation for collaboration and strategic thinking.
“Authentic curiosity and self-confidence can pave the way to any destination,” Vandana advises, reflecting the philosophy that has defined her career.
Leadership at Saudia Cargo
For the past decade, Vandana has been instrumental in transforming Saudia Cargo’s key account management strategies across the Asia Pacific region. Her leadership style combines innovation with a relentless pursuit of excellence, ensuring the company remains competitive in a dynamic industry. She describes her role as a “fulfilling challenge,” driven by a passion that remains undiminished after years of success.
Vandana’s achievements extend beyond corporate boardrooms. She is a vocal advocate for policies that empower women in the workforce, urging young women to seize opportunities and break barriers. “The time is ripe for breaking barriers,” she asserts, highlighting the growing need for female leadership in male-dominated industries.
Awards and Accolades
Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including the Times Woman Achievers Award and the Global Icon in Aviation & Logistics award in 2023. These honors recognize her extraordinary contributions, such as facilitating the first global agreement between Skyways and Saudia Cargo, which elevated India’s standing in global logistics.
Inspiration for the Future
As a TED Talk speaker and mentor, Vandana inspires others with her insights on resilience and innovation. She encourages the younger generation to embrace continuous learning and find mentors to guide their journeys. “Get a mentor and learn to love learning. Don’t give up; eventually, you’ll succeed,” she advises, distilling years of wisdom into actionable insights.
Through her story, Vandana Singh reaffirms the limitless potential of women in industries once considered off-limits. Her journey is a powerful reminder that barriers are meant to be broken.
