By Jade Neville
The parking industry is evolving, and at the heart of this transformation is a growing movement championing diversity, inclusion, and representation. Women in Parking UK, an advisory group formed by the British Parking Association (BPA) in 2020, is leading the way in breaking barriers and fostering a supportive community for women across the sector. Following International Women’s Day 2025, which this year was held March 8, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on our incredible journey and the lasting impact we continue to make — not just in the UK, but globally.
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A milestone worth celebrating
This year, Women in Parking UK reached an exciting milestone — 500 members! This achievement is a testament to the power of community and the commitment of professionals who believe in driving change. Our network has become a vital space for education, collaboration, and mentorship, where members share experiences, knowledge, and opportunities.
Together, we have:
• Challenged industry stereotypes by advocating for equal opportunities and representation in leadership roles.
• Created a welcoming network that fosters meaningful connections and personal development.
• Collaborated with international peers to exchange insights and expand our influence beyond the UK.
Economic impact and the business case for inclusion
A diverse and inclusive workforce is not just a social goal — it’s an economic necessity. The BPA’s “Equalities, Diversity, and Inclusivity Research 2023” report highlighted that companies with diverse leadership teams are 33% more likely to outperform competitors in profitability. Moreover, the research found that organisations investing in gender diversity reported a 21% increase in innovation revenue.
Women in Parking UK has worked tirelessly to ensure that the economic benefits of inclusion are recognized across the sector. By encouraging diversity in decision-making roles, we help create an industry that is more resilient, innovative, and financially successful. This focus on economic empowerment is particularly relevant in the wake of global economic uncertainties, where businesses that embrace diverse leadership have demonstrated greater adaptability and long-term success.
Global connections and shared goals
The challenges faced by women in parking are not confined to one country. Across the world, women continue to encounter obstacles in male-dominated industries. By working with international partners, including peers in the US, we aim to create a more equitable, inclusive sector.
The BPA has long been an advocate for gender diversity and professional growth. While Women in Parking UK focuses on empowering women within the parking sector, my involvement in Women in Transport — a not-for-profit organization dedicated to empowering women in the transportation sector — has enabled me to address key concerns affecting women across the broader transport industry. These combined efforts ensure that safety and inclusivity remain at the forefront of industry discussions.
The power of diversity of thought
One of the key takeaways from the BPA’s 2023 research is the importance of diversity of thought in leadership. A homogenous workforce often leads to groupthink, limiting creativity and problem-solving potential. In contrast, teams with varied perspectives drive innovation and lead to more robust decision-making.
Women in Parking UK is committed to fostering diversity of thought within the industry. By encouraging professionals from different backgrounds to share
their insights and experiences, we cultivate an environment in which new ideas can thrive. This is particularly crucial in an industry that is adapting to new technologies, sustainability goals, and evolving consumer expectations.
Inspiration from remarkable leaders
One of the most rewarding aspects of Women in Parking UK has been the opportunity to engage with inspiring women from diverse backgrounds. Over the years, we have welcomed remarkable speakers, including Mandy Hickson, a former Royal Air Force Fast Jet pilot; Jade Edwards, a British Touring Car Championship racing driver; Sara Cox MBE, an international rugby referee; Kate Bright, a private security specialist; Tara Halliday, an imposter syndrome specialist; and Baroness Floella Benjamin, a member of the House of Lords. Their insights and experiences have motivated our members, reinforcing the belief that women can thrive in any industry they choose.
Each of these leaders embodies the values of resilience, adaptability, and innovation — qualities that are essential for shaping the future of the parking industry. By amplifying their stories, we continue to challenge outdated perceptions and encourage more women to pursue leadership roles within the sector.
Looking to the future
While we celebrate how far we have come, our journey is far from over. Women in Parking UK remains committed to empowering women in the industry, fostering new opportunities, and strengthening global partnerships. We look forward to continuing our work with our peers in the US and beyond, exchanging best practices and creating a more inclusive future for all.
As part of International Women’s Day 2025, we were proud to champion diversity, break down barriers, and celebrate the achievements of women in parking alongside our global peers. The theme of this year’s celebration — Accelerate Action — resonates deeply with our mission. We are committed to accelerating economic support for women, increasing representation in leadership, and ensuring that the benefits of inclusion are felt across the entire industry.
Together, we can drive meaningful change, one step at a time.
JADE NEVILLE is the sales operations and marketing manager for Trellint, a co-founder of Women in Parking UK, and a former president of the British Parking Association. She can be reached at jade.neville@trellint.com.
