Merchandise transport
- Eric - 41
With GEFCO for 5 years
Eric, batch-chartering manager
Eric joined the group in 2003; he was recently promoted to a manager for batch-chartering in the region. He tells us about his role.
What does your job involve?
The work of a charterer consists of setting up the most appropriate means of transport in response to a delivery request. This must comply with the required lead times, the regulations and the client’s budget constraints. This work is indispensable for every transport operator. Rather like an orchestra conductor, the charterer has to listen constantly to the employees in order to lead them in achieving demanding objectives as a team: in terms of results, of course, but also quality.
What qualities are necessary for efficiency in this post?
First of all, tenacity and application. And then a flair for commerce. Whatever the situation, we must always be accessible, agreeable, and meet the expectations of our clients. It’s not always easy! And you have to be able to take a firm line in certain negotiations and not let yourself be tempted by dumping. I find it a dynamic and enjoyable line of work because it constantly offers new challenges and the chance to progress.
What are the strengths of GEFCO, in your opinion?
Firstly, the power of the group, because it is an organisation that is financially stable and well managed and GEFCO’s affiliation with the PSA group obviously gives us the heritage and reputation of being a leading player in our field. We can also offer highly diverse services that meet a very wide range of logistical needs in many countries, and this reassures our clients.
How would you sum up this last year working with GEFCO?
This year I had the opportunity to go out to back up one of our teams dedicated to a major client. This enabled me to get to know new employees with very different personalities who enriched my professional experience. I then had an offer to manage a bigger department in a regional branch - this is a new challenge in a new environment, with different rules. I’m looking forward to it.
And tomorrow?
My first objective is to succeed at this new challenge. Afterwards, we’ll see. It’s like transport plans: everything changes all the time. You get used to adapting, its like a reflex.
