In the male-dominated world of aviation and logistics, few figures stand as tall and inspiring as Vandana Singh. As the Director of Global Corporate Key Account Management Asia Pacific at Saudia Cargo, Vandana has spent nearly three decades reshaping the air cargo industry with her dynamic leadership, strategic prowess, and innovative vision. Her story is one of resilience, balance, and relentless determination to overcome even the most formidable challenges.
Vandana’s journey is marked by significant professional achievements and a personal philosophy rooted in balance and resilience. Drawing inspiration from Albert Einstein’s wisdom, she navigates chaos with simplicity and discovers opportunities in adversity. Influenced deeply by her father, Brigadier S. L. Kapur, Vandana embodies a drive to empower women and shatter barriers with unwavering resolve.
Vandana’s aspirations began early. Dreaming of joining the Indian Air Force fighter squadrons in the 1990s, she faced insurmountable regulations that prevented her from pursuing this path. Undeterred, Vandana forged a different course, eventually making her mark in the aviation industry. Her 15-year tenure with Lufthansa Cargo, described as a ‘disciplined run,’ was filled with continuous learning and growth at every turn.
“I believe that women in logistics bring a unique collaborative spirit to the industry,” Vandana says. “We nurture stronger partnerships through higher expectations of cooperation.”
In her view, being a woman in the workplace presents no drawbacks. Her message to women is clear: genuine curiosity and self-confidence can chart a course to any destination. Now, as the Director of Global Key Account Management Asia Pacific at Saudia Cargo for a decade, Vandana’s passion for the industry remains as vibrant and exploratory as ever. Balancing her roles as a dedicated professional and loving mother, she sets an unparalleled benchmark for women in her field.
Vandana is a strong advocate for government support for women in the workforce. She advises young women to embrace confidence and seize opportunities. Historically underrepresented in the air cargo industry, Vandana believes the time is ripe for women to break in and encourages networking through participation in professional organizations.
“Get a mentor and learn to love learning. Don’t give up; eventually, you’ll succeed,” Vandana advises the younger generation.
Her remarkable journey is adorned with numerous awards and accolades. Vandana has been recognized with the Most Prestigious Oscar Award for Aviation Cargo from Lufthansa and honored as a Covid Warrior in 2022. Her recent accolades include the Times Woman Achievers Award 2023, Most Admired Indian 2023, and Global Icon in Aviation & Logistics 2023. As a TED Talk speaker, she enlightened audiences on “Embrace the Change” in October 2023.
One of Vandana’s notable achievements is playing a key role in the first Global Agreement with Skyways and Saudia Cargo, which significantly positioned India on the global map of select partners. Her contributions have been featured in prominent publications like NewsX, Cargo Talk, Cargo Connect, and Cargo Insights. She also graced the front page of Passion Vista Magazine, showcasing her exceptional journey and impact in the logistics industry.
Looking ahead, Vandana envisions a future where women are no longer an exception in the aviation and logistics sectors but a rule. She plans to continue breaking barriers, mentoring young women, and advocating for policies that support gender diversity in the workplace.
“I want to see more women taking up leadership roles in this industry,” Vandana asserts. “The future is bright, and with determination and support, we can achieve anything.”
Vandana Singh’s extraordinary journey and remarkable achievements continue to inspire countless others. Her unconquerable spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence have left a lasting impact on the aviation and logistics industry. With Vandana at the forefront, the sky’s not just the limit—it’s the beginning of limitless possibilities.
