As more women enter the male-dominated logistics and transport industry, they are gradually creating change. In Cebu, one woman stands out, leading one of the region’s top logistics players.
Leslie D. Lim, founder and chief executive officer of the LDL Group of Companies, has built a business that supports transport, trade, and supply chain operations for various industries. The Cebu-based company provides services, such as trucking, warehousing, and freight movement across the Visayas and Mindanao.
With Cebu emerging as one of the country’s major business hubs—from dried mango production to the transport of goods and meat products—logistics services have become increasingly in demand. Lim has been part of the industry for more than two decades, competing alongside large logistics firms while helping businesses move products efficiently across the region.
Where It All Started
Before becoming a founder and CEO, Lim worked for a major company that helped shape her leadership and business mindset.
“My experience working under a very dynamic and diversified company taught me that in managing a company, we must be diversified and keep abreast with the fast-changing business trends,” Lim said. “Therefore, we must have that forward-thinking mindset which will put us in a position of being ahead of the curve.”
Starting from humble beginnings, Lim worked her way up the professional ladder before eventually building her own company.
“I was once an employee who started from the bottom until I ascended the career ladder,” she said. “So I perfectly know how it feels to be like my staff. I know that nothing is impossible as long as you do your job with your heart into it.”
For Lim, the lessons she learned early in her career continue to guide her leadership today.
Those experiences, she said, serve as her torchbearer—reminding her to lead by example while inspiring others along the way.
‘Leading By Example’
As an executive leading the LDL Group of Companies and president of the Federation of Ecozone Service Providers – Visayas Chapter, Lim said one of the most important leadership principles she follows is leading by example.
“One of the basic leadership principles I always adhere to is ‘leading by example.’ Whatever you preach must be what mirrors your people,” Lim said.
Because she started her career as an employee, she believes she understands the realities faced by workers.
“I know how it feels to be
Women Are Limitless
As the country celebrates Women’s Month, Lim hopes her journey can inspire more women to pursue leadership roles even in industries traditionally dominated by men.
“Being a woman is already an added point in holding any position. Our natural character of being passionate and able to handle multiple tasks gives us an edge,” Lim said.
She stressed that gender should never be seen as a limitation.
“In my case, I started and rose in a male-dominated industry, and my gender never hindered me from excelling in all lines of logistics services,” she said. “I proved that gender is not an excuse to lead a team.”
Why Women Deserve to Lead
Lim also believes organizations should actively create opportunities for women to grow and lead.
“Having said all the positive attributes of women in our community, management should encourage them to explore their potential,” she said.
According to Lim, when women are entrusted with responsibility, they often rise to the challenge.
“Once they are given that opportunity, they will pour their hearts into it, and surely they will soar high with flying colors.”
