When did you start at Cory?
“August 2017.”
What is your position now and what were your previous positions within the business?
“Director of Logistics, previously Head of National Sales.”
What are you responsible for now? What actual working roles do you fulfil?
“Currently responsible for the entire Cory Logistics division. As director of the division my role is to oversee all aspects and to drive future vision and strategy. Having experience in operations, customs clearance, sales, overseas markets (for all modes, air, ocean & road) provides me with clear insight into each area.”
Tell us about your new Ipswich office. Why did you move and what are the benefits?
“As part of our future vision we wanted to be closer to the thriving town and community where most of our team live and to tap into new and emerging talent. Our amazing office provides a fantastic location (on the 8th floor of St Vincent House), a 360-degree view of the town and the ability to have the three divisions together.”
How has the freight forwarding market changed in the last 10 years and what does the future hold?
“The freight forwarding industry is in flux; the industry is rife with consolidations and acquisitions with the small-to-medium-sized forwarders working hard to remain competitive against the larger agents. For today’s forwarders the pathway to profitability lies with value added services and process automation. This is a two-pronged approach that differentiates our business with customised add-on services and reduces errors, thus improving customer services and our clients’ experience. The only way to achieve both goals is through technology. Optimising the technology available improves the businesses tool kit and allows us to remain nimble in a highly competitive market.”
What makes Cory stand out as a service provider?
“At Cory we pride ourselves on customer service, relationships and flexibility. We tailor our services to suit the customer’s needs and embrace technological advancements.”
What do Cory Logistics specialise in?
“As a business we specialise in full supply chain for various sectors: telecoms, food & ingredients, ships’ spares, retail and automotive. We also pride ourselves on our projects department.”
What are some strategies you’ve learned that can help you gain and retain customers?
“Listen to your clients, both existing and new. Try to think outside the box, be innovative and proactive and work to establish multi- layered relationships, as these will aid our customer as much as us.”
What have you learned in your career that you would pass on as key advice to a younger you?
“Some advice I would offer is to travel, work and live abroad (if possible). This will allow you to understand different cultures, their ways of working and ultimately give you a broader experience. Also, consider any opportunities presented to you, especially if they are out of your comfort zone, as these will provide you with a valuable insight into your capabilities.”
What’s the most challenging thing about being head of Cory Logistics?
“The most challenging part of my job is finance and getting my head around it. Luckily we have a great FD who is always more than happy to support me.”
What’s next for Cory Logistics?
“We’re always looking at ways to improve, exploring new service options, reviewing what we do to make sure it’s still the right way and, most importantly, building on the strong platform we’ve established over 177 years.”
