Recognized as the “Most Prestigious Female Leader of the Year” in 2024 by Ctoday Awards, Chitra Shinde’s journey in the logistics industry is marked by her exceptional leadership and dedication to operational excellence. After completing her education, she embarked on her career with DHL Express as a Management Trainee, where she quickly became captivated by the global scale of the company’s operations. With a profound understanding that operations lie at the core of business success, Chitra has continuously sought opportunities to learn, grow, and innovate throughout her career.

Selected for Commitment to Operational Excellence

As the Head of Operations at DHL Express Singapore, Chitra is focused on executing the company’s global strategy, which aims to accelerate sustainable growth across four key bottom lines: becoming the employer of choice, provider of choice, investment of choice, and most recently, the green logistics of choice. Singapore’s reputation as a best-in-class operation across all four key bottom makes her recent appointment to the role a testament to her leadership capabilities. She believes that competitive advantage must be continually created to remain ahead and deliver faster than market growth. The company has already converted 30% of its ground fleet to electric vehicles, with plans to expand this fleet through 2030. DHL Express has launched the “GoGreen Plus” service, utilizing Sustainable Aviation Fuel to help customers reduce carbon emissions associated with their shipments. Chitra’s commitment to enhancing customer value through innovative solutions positions DHL Express as a leader in high-growth industries such as Pharmaceuticals, Healthcare, and Life Sciences.

Why Chitra Shinde Deserves the Title of “Most Prestigious Female Leader of the Year”

Visionary Leadership in Customer Centricity and Sustainability

Chitra’s strategic vision extends beyond operational excellence; it embodies a commitment to being the First Choice of customers, Leading change and transformation and Sustainability. She drives an insanely customer centric operations culture where Customer feedback is used to drive continuous improvement. Her passion for green logistics not only reflects a forward-thinking approach but also addresses the pressing challenges of climate change. She has a track record of setting high standards for herself, the logistics industry and inspiring others to follow suit.

Team Recognition and Accolades in 2024 

In 2024, DHL Express Singapore has received numerous accolades, including the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Innovation Silver Award from the Singapore Logistics Association and certification as a Great Place to Work for the eighth consecutive time. Furthermore, the company has been recognized as the number one Great Place to Work in Singapore for the fourth year running and ranked first by The Straits Times in the Best Customer Service 2024/25 list under the “Transportation and Travel – Shipping and Delivery Services” category. The Friend of Singapore Red Cross award, received from the President of Singapore for its partnership with the Red Cross, highlights the company’s commitment to social responsibility.

A Purpose-Driven Approach to Operations

Chitra firmly believes in DHL Express’s mission of “Connecting People, Improving Lives,” which serves as a compass for her daily operations and decision-making. This purpose provides clarity and stability, guiding actions that enhance the company’s mission, especially during challenging times. The active participation in community initiatives through various Go programs—GoHelp, GoTeach, GoTrade, and GoGreen—further underscores her commitment to making a positive impact.

Advice for Aspiring Professionals in Operations Management

Chitra advises aspiring professionals in operations management to develop skills that can lead Change and Digitalization initiatives that deliver value to the team, customers, and stakeholders while maintaining a positive workplace atmosphere. Chitra encourages collaboration, creativity, and curiosity in problem solving, stressing the need for resilience and the ability to navigate ambiguity. Most importantly, she underscores the significance of being human—showing courage, empathy, and vulnerability while celebrating collective success.