Patel Integrated Logistics, a leading player in India’s logistics and supply chain sector, has announced the appointment of R Kannan as an Independent Director on its board, pending regulatory approval. Kannan, a member of the Harvard Business Review Advisory Council, brings over 39 years of extensive experience in finance, strategy, and corporate performance management, according to an official release. Kannan’s career includes leadership roles in prominent organisations such as TCS, PwC, Hinduja Group, ICICI Bank, and Piramal Group. His expertise spans various industries including banking, IT, logistics, and infrastructure. He has led key initiatives in corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, organisational restructuring, and global business development. Syed Husain, Chairman of Patel Integrated Logistics, expressed enthusiasm for Kannan’s appointment. "It is a pleasure to welcome R Kannan to our board. His vast experience with some of the country’s most prestigious corporations, along with his proven ability to drive strategic growth, will bring valuable insights to our company. His expertise in global finance and strategy will play a crucial role in supporting our long-term growth ambitions and reinforcing Patel Integrated’s leadership in the rapidly growing logistics sector." R Kannan shared his excitement about joining the board, stating, "I am thrilled to be a part of Patel Integrated Logistics, a company with a significant legacy in India’s logistics industry. I look forward to working closely with the Board and exploring new opportunities in the dynamic logistics landscape. Together, we aim to create sustainable value and drive the company’s future success."
Gurugram-based logistics leader, Ritco Logistics, has appointed Mr. Surya Narayan Singh as the Vice President of its Multimodal division. With 38 years of industry experience, Singh will spearhead strategic initiatives focused on multimodal operations, particularly emphasising segments supported by Indian Railways. He firmly believes that railways are an unparalleled solution for surface transport, asserting that no organisation matches its strength in this domain. Singh’s extensive career includes 26 years in multimodal logistics, with notable stints in the soft drink industry at McDowell’s and PepsiCo before transitioning into logistics. His recent role as head of Rail Operations at a leading logistics firm underscores his deep expertise, including his instrumental contribution to the creation of the Parcel Special Train under Central Railways in 2000. His experience in Indian railways and containerised freight movement positions him as a key asset for Ritco’s future growth. Committed to advancing Ritco’s presence in both domestic and global logistics markets, Singh plans to leverage his experience to streamline the integration of rail and road transport. He believes that with strategic planning and technological adoption, the Indian logistics sector can drive significant economic growth. Singh stated, “Technology is transforming every segment of the economy, and my goal is to strategically implement these advancements to propel Ritco’s growth. By addressing the complex challenges of the logistics industry, we can make a meaningful contribution to India’s economic progress.” Founded in 1997, Ritco Logistics reported net sales of Rs 252 crore in the first quarter of FY2025, with a net profit of Rs 8.6 crore. The company’s stock closed at Rs 371.05 on the BSE, reflecting a market cap of Rs 1,050.92 crore.
ECU Worldwide, the global leader in Less than Container Load (LCL) consolidation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Allcargo Logistics, has announced the appointment of Stephen Dunn as its new Global Finance Director. Based in Dubai, Dunn will be pivotal in overseeing the company’s global finance function and spearheading the transformation of financial processes, setting the stage for the next phase of growth for ECU Worldwide. Dunn joins ECU Worldwide with over 20 years of extensive leadership experience in international organisations across various industries. A qualified Certified Public Accountant (CPA), he previously served as the Global Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Wings Travel for four years. His prior roles include Regional Finance Director at Vanguard and leadership positions at UTI (DSV), demonstrating a strong track record in financial management. Shashi Kiran Shetty, Founder and Chairman of Allcargo Group, expressed his enthusiasm for Dunn's appointment, stating, “We are delighted to have Steve in the global executive team of ECU Worldwide. His rich expertise and profound understanding of market dynamics make him a valuable addition. I am confident that he will contribute to realising our vision of institution building within the company.” Dunn also shared his excitement regarding his new role, stating, “I am thrilled to be part of ECU Worldwide's executive team. This position allows me to leverage my experience in aligning financial strategies with business objectives, ultimately delivering value to all stakeholders. I look forward to collaborating with the leadership team to advance the organisation’s growth journey.” This strategic appointment underscores ECU Worldwide’s commitment to enhancing its financial leadership and operational excellence in the logistics sector.
Effective September 1, 2024, Oliver von Götz has assumed the role of Head of Global Fulfilment Management at Lufthansa Cargo in Frankfurt. In this capacity, he will oversee global warehouse handling, enhance the production system, and manage customer service for the airline. Additionally, von Götz will serve as the primary liaison with relevant authorities, reinforcing Lufthansa Cargo's commitment to operational excellence and compliance. With 13 years of robust experience in the aviation industry, von Götz brings extensive expertise in network management, strategy, and sales. Prior to his current role, he was the Head of Corporate Airline Strategy and Business Development at Lufthansa Airlines, part of the Lufthansa Group. This strategic background positions him well to lead the Global Fulfilment Management team and navigate the complexities of supply chain operations. Dietmar Focke, Chief Operations Officer at Lufthansa Cargo, expressed enthusiasm about von Götz's appointment, stating, "We are delighted that Oliver von Götz is now leading our Global Fulfilment Management team. He has the right experience to coordinate the many interfaces within the supply chain, to establish new, more efficient solutions and ultimately to enable optimal shipment processes for our customers." Von Götz succeeds Dr Jan-Wilhelm Breithaupt, who transitioned to become the Managing Director of Jettainer, the global market leader in unit load device (ULD) management services and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lufthansa Cargo, on June 1, 2024. With this leadership change, Lufthansa Cargo is poised to further enhance its global fulfilment capabilities, ensuring top-tier service delivery to its clients.
Snowman Logistics Limited announced a key leadership change following its board meeting on September 24, 2024. The company acknowledged the resignation of Mr Sunil Prabhakaran Nair from his position as Chief Executive Officer, effective from the close of business on November 30, 2024. However, Mr Nair will continue his association with the company as a consultant post-resignation, ensuring a smooth transition of responsibilities. In response to Mr Nair's departure, Snowman Logistics has appointed Mr Padamdeep Singh Handa as the new Chief Executive Officer, effective December 1, 2024, pending required approvals. Mr Handa will also be designated as Key Managerial Personnel. His term as CEO will commence on December 1, 2024, and will continue until he resigns, is removed, or reaches the retirement age as per the company's internal policies. Mr Handa brings significant experience to his new role, having been with Snowman Logistics for seven years, most recently serving as the Chief Commercial Officer. He holds an MBA and has 15 years of experience in logistics and supply chain management, with expertise in cold chain logistics, exports and imports, transportation, and customs handling. His leadership is expected to further strengthen Snowman Logistics’ position in the cold chain sector.
Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) has announced the appointment of Alain Chisari as the new head of its Swiss WorldCargo division, effective October 1, 2024. Chisari, who is 52, has been a part of SWISS since 2008, during which he has held various management roles within both SWISS and the Lufthansa Group. Currently serving as the ITA Implementation Officer for the Lufthansa Group, Chisari will succeed Lorenzo Stoll, who has opted to pursue opportunities outside the airline industry. In his new role, Chisari will lead the Swiss WorldCargo airfreight division, which employs approximately 300 staff worldwide. He will be responsible for shaping and executing the division’s business strategy as it continues to expand its market presence. Chisari takes over from Stoll, who left Swiss WorldCargo at the end of July after 11 years of dedicated service. Stoll is set to become the CEO of a Swiss company in the healthcare sector. Chisari initially joined SWISS in 2008, bringing over a decade of experience from other airlines outside the Lufthansa Group. He started as Head of Leisure Sales before progressing to Head of External Relations & Alliances. In 2013, Chisari joined Edelweiss, SWISS’s sister airline, as Chief Commercial Officer and member of the Management Board. Heike Birlenbach, Chief Commercial Officer at SWISS, expressed confidence in Chisari’s ability to continue developing the air cargo business. She also extended her gratitude to Lorenzo Stoll for his exceptional leadership during the challenging pandemic period, which saw Swiss WorldCargo significantly contribute to the company’s success.
The Association of Multimodal Transport Operators of India (AMTOI) has appointed its new office bearers for the 2024-25 term, following elections held at the Annual General Meeting. Arun Kumar has been named the new President, with Devpal Menon serving as Vice President, Haresh Lalwani as Honorary Secretary, and Vasant Pathak as Honorary Treasurer. These experienced professionals bring a wealth of expertise from the logistics and multimodal transport sectors, ensuring AMTOI’s continued mission to promote the growth and efficiency of multimodal transport systems in India. Their leadership is expected to drive the organisation’s efforts to bolster the country’s logistics capabilities, making it more competitive on a global scale. Newly elected President Arun Kumar expressed his enthusiasm for the role, emphasising the focus on innovation, strengthening the framework for multimodal transport, and advocating for policies that will further enhance the industry’s potential. The new team is also committed to advancing initiatives in digital transformation, sustainability, and strengthening collaboration with key domestic and international stakeholders. AMTOI thanked the outgoing office bearers for their dedicated service and expressed confidence in the new leadership's ability to build on the organisation’s tradition of excellence while driving forward new initiatives.
Double Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker has been appointed as the Brand Ambassador for the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways. Bhaker, renowned for her remarkable achievements in shooting at the recent Summer Olympics in Paris, is the daughter of a Marine Engineer, reflecting a deep-rooted connection to the maritime sector. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, expressed his pride in Bhaker's appointment, stating, “It is a moment of great pride for every Indian and for every member of India’s maritime sector. Manu Bhaker, the daughter of a proud marine sailor, will now champion the marine sector of India as our official Brand Ambassador.” Sonowal highlighted Bhaker’s historic accomplishment as the first Indian to win two individual Olympic medals at a single Olympics. He attributed her success to the values instilled in her during her formative years—punctuality, discipline, perseverance, and humility—qualities synonymous with the marine sector. The Minister emphasised that Bhaker's story serves as an inspiration to the youth of India, illustrating the promising career opportunities within the maritime industry. He also noted that her involvement aims to promote India’s vision of becoming self-reliant by 2047, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for an Atmanirbhar Bharat. The appointment of Bhaker as Brand Ambassador is expected to enhance awareness and interest in the marine sector, encouraging more young Indians to explore and contribute to this vital industry.
Kale Logistics Solutions (Kale) has announced the appointment of Tribhuwan Negi as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Negi, who brings nearly 25 years of experience in developing large-scale SaaS platforms and leading global R&D teams, will play a crucial role in advancing Kale’s technology initiatives. His arrival comes at a pivotal time as Kale continues to enhance its UN-recognised Airport Cargo Community System and Port Community System. One of Negi's initial priorities will be the development of AI-driven applications designed to further optimise Kale’s solutions within the logistics and supply chain sectors. His appointment aligns with Kale’s strategic focus on leveraging cutting-edge technology to drive global trade and commerce forward. In a statement, Negi highlighted the rapid advancements in logistics and supply chain technology and expressed enthusiasm for Kale’s innovative environment. “The journey so far has been exhilarating, with new challenges, experiences, and incredible achievements; I have found the company culture, leadership, vision, and direction motivational, and I look forward to our future successes,” said Negi. This leadership expansion at Kale also includes the recent addition of a global Chief Financial Officer, Chief Innovation Officer, and Chief of Human Resources. Rajesh Panicker, Co-Founder and COO of Kale Logistics Solutions, expressed confidence that Negi’s expertise will accelerate the company's growth and bolster its ability to deliver ground-breaking technological solutions in the global supply chain sector.
MOVIN, a joint venture between InterGlobe Enterprises and UPS, has announced that Grégory Goba-Blé will take on additional responsibilities as Director to directly oversee India operations. Goba-Blé, who also heads UPS in India, brings extensive leadership experience to MOVIN, a growing player in the country’s dynamic logistics sector. Goba-Blé’s expanded role is seen as a strategic move to leverage India’s rapid market growth. “His international experience and leadership will be key to driving MOVIN’s commitment to excellence through innovative, tech-driven solutions that deliver business-centric benefits for its customers,” MOVIN said in a statement. Goba-Blé’s expertise will be pivotal in advancing MOVIN’s logistics solutions, which have been trusted by over 2000 customers since its launch in 2022, covering 3300 pin codes across 49 cities. Goba-Blé succeeds JB Singh, who will continue to serve on the MOVIN Board. Singh praised Goba-Blé’s leadership, stating that under his guidance, MOVIN will continue to innovate, expand its network, and achieve new milestones. Goba-Blé expressed his commitment to enhancing MOVIN’s service offerings. “I have been with MOVIN since its early days and watched it grow to serve B2B customers in 49 cities. Logistics is the backbone of any successful business, and we are here to ensure goods move smoothly within India through MOVIN and across borders through UPS,” he said. With over 32 years at UPS, including key roles such as Managing Director of UPS France and Vice President of Engineering for the Americas Region, Goba-Blé’s strategic vision and experience will be critical in strengthening MOVIN’s market position in India.
Maersk has announced the appointment of Christopher Cook as the new Managing Director for India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, effective October 1, 2024. Cook, who previously served as Managing Director for UAE, Oman, and Qatar, will now lead Maersk’s commercial operations across the key South Asian markets. Richard Morgan, Managing Director for the Indian Subcontinent, Middle East, and Africa at Maersk, expressed confidence in Cook’s leadership. “I am delighted to welcome Cook to his new role. He will take charge of one of our most important markets, and I am confident that his wealth of experience will contribute to our growth in the geography,” said Morgan. Cook, with a strong track record in managing complex logistics operations, is enthusiastic about his new role. “I am deeply honoured to take on the role of leading the team in South Asia. This region presents immense growth opportunities, and I look forward to working closely with our talented team here. Together, we will strengthen Maersk's position as a trusted logistics partner for our customers while driving solutions that create value for them and our stakeholders,” he stated. Cook’s appointment is seen as a strategic move by Maersk to bolster its presence in South Asia, one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving logistics landscapes. His extensive experience is expected to drive Maersk’s continued growth and strengthen its customer-focused logistics solutions in the region.
DHL Express has announced the appointment of Peter Bardens as Senior Vice President for Asia Pacific network operations and aviation. Bardens, who will join the DHL Express Asia Pacific management board, brings extensive experience from his previous role managing ground operations in Europe. In his new position, Bardens will oversee a complex network that includes more than 25 freighters, 7,200 pick-up and delivery vehicles, and 1,100 facilities across the Asia Pacific region. This infrastructure supports a connected system of 50 gateways and three main hubs in Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Singapore, handling approximately 710 flights daily. Bardens will be based in Singapore and takes over from Sean Wall, who will transition to a global role overseeing ground operations effective January 1, 2025. Ken Lee, CEO of DHL Express Asia Pacific, emphasised Bardens’ proven track record in Europe and his ability to drive operational excellence, which will be critical in enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the Asia Pacific network. Bardens expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, acknowledging the challenging logistics landscape in Asia Pacific. He praised the dedication and adaptability of the team and is confident that his background in network and ground operations will help the team meet evolving market demands with precision and efficiency.
Lufthansa Cargo has announced that Elodie Berthonneau will take over as Vice President Asia-Pacific effective 1 October 2024, based in Singapore. Berthonneau will lead the sales and handling operations in key markets, including China, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Oceania. She joins Lufthansa Cargo from Qatar Cargo, where she served as Vice President of Network Planning and Strategic Partnerships. With over 25 years of experience in the aviation industry, Berthonneau has held various leadership roles in sales, pricing, profit management, and strategic planning at Qatar Airways and Air France KLM. Her extensive background includes building start-ups, restructuring organisations, network redesign, and managing major strategic partnerships. Berthonneau’s international experience spans Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, making her well-suited to drive growth in the Asia-Pacific region. Anand Kulkarni, Head of Global Markets at Lufthansa Cargo, expressed confidence in her appointment, stating, "We are happy to welcome Elodie Berthonneau as Head of Asia-Pacific. The Asian region is one of our most important markets and is expected to become even more relevant in the coming years. Combining her expertise and experience within the industry and the Lufthansa Cargo brand and knowledge, she will set new accents in our Asia-Pacific organisation and in the dialogue with our customers." Berthonneau’s appointment reflects Lufthansa Cargo’s strategic focus on expanding its presence in one of the world's most dynamic and growing markets.
CargoAi, a digital enabler in the air cargo industry, has appointed Olivier Veyrac as its Senior Vice President for CargoWALLET. Launched in February 2023, CargoWALLET facilitates cargo payments in over 47 currencies, enhancing payment convenience for airlines, freight forwarders, ground handling agents, and logistics service providers worldwide. Over the last 18 months, more than 5,000 companies have adopted CargoWALLET, allowing freight professionals to make payments from 150 countries using local methods. This innovation eliminates the need for cash transactions, lengthy settlement times, and bank guarantees, streamlining payment processes for all logistics companies involved. The integration of CargoWALLET with freight forwarders’ Transport Management Systems (TMS) further accelerates payment and reconciliation via multiple payment methods. “Positive customer feedback and the rapid success of CargoWALLET show that the industry is keen on adopting reliable payment solutions,” said Matt Petot, CEO of CargoAi. “CargoWALLET has reached critical adoption in its early version.” Petot highlighted Veyrac’s extensive experience in financial technology and his role in scaling global B2B payment solutions. “His expertise will be invaluable to the success of CargoAi’s fintech venture,” Petot added. Veyrac expressed enthusiasm for his new role, noting, “CargoWALLET offers the broadest reach by far in the industry, with over 200 payment methods across 150 countries. It meets the strict security and confidentiality requirements demanded by banking regulations, making it one of the strongest options in the industry. There is still room for improvement, and I aim to expand features, partners, and geographic reach in the coming months.”
Tech-based, on-demand logistics company Porter has bolstered its leadership team by appointing Athira as Vice President of Public Policy and Government Affairs, and Krishna Mohan Gadi as Head of Product. Athira brings over 15 years of experience in public policy and government affairs, having previously held key roles at Uber and the Kerala State Women’s Development Corporation. Her expertise in regulatory frameworks and corporate-government relations is expected to enhance Porter’s engagement with policymakers and drive impactful public policy initiatives. "We are delighted to welcome Athira and Krishna to the Porter family," said Rizwan Khan, Vice-President of People & Culture at Porter. Recognising the need to align more closely with central and state policies, Porter aims to strengthen its policy governance. "With Athira’s expertise, we are confident in our ability to navigate complexities and improve our efficiency as delivery partners," Khan added. Krishna Mohan Gadi, with over 14 years of experience in product leadership, including tenures at Vedantu and Swiggy, will lead the product, design, and user research functions at Porter. His focus on product-led growth and enhancing user experience is expected to drive innovation and elevate Porter’s offerings. "We hope to leverage Krishna’s expertise to enhance our product practices and ensure a seamless experience for our diverse users," Khan noted. As demand for reliable and cost-effective logistics solutions grows, Porter is poised to meet this challenge with its tech-enabled services, transparent pricing, and commitment to providing a seamless experience for its customers.
Celcius Logistics, a leading 3PL logistics provider, has appointed Ganesh Satam and Yugal K. Agrawal as Chief Business Officers for life sciences and healthcare and operations pan-India, respectively. This strategic move aims to bolster the company's presence in the cold chain sector and drive innovative logistics solutions. Ganesh Satam brings extensive experience in logistics and supply chain management, having previously held significant roles at DHL Supply Chain and other prominent firms. Yugal K. Agrawal boasts a strong background in transportation management, regional operations, and business leadership. In his new role, Satam will focus on driving sales, forging strategic partnerships, and spearheading business development efforts in the pharmaceuticals, life sciences, and healthcare sectors. His goal is to position Celcius Logistics as a leading provider of temperature-controlled logistics solutions. Meanwhile, Agrawal will oversee the company's nationwide operations, ensuring streamlined processes and operational excellence across India. The appointments of Satam and Agrawal are expected to strengthen Celcius Logistics' market position and enhance its ability to deliver reliable and efficient cold chain logistics services. This move underscores the company's commitment to growth and innovation in the logistics industry.
Amandeep Singh Bhatia has assumed the position of Logistics Secretary, Logistics and Trade, at the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) within the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. Bhatia, a 1993 batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer from the Nagaland Cadre, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. With a Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and a Postgraduate degree in International Development Policy, Bhatia has held various significant positions both in the State of Nagaland and under the Government of India. In Nagaland, he served as the Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister and Development Commissioner, overseeing key portfolios including Personnel and General Administration, Administrative Reforms, and Development of the North Eastern Region (NER) and North East Policy. Before his current appointment, Bhatia was Additional Secretary in the Department of Commerce, where he contributed to various national and international trade initiatives. His extensive experience in both state and central government roles is expected to be instrumental in advancing India's logistics and trade sectors, crucial for the country’s economic growth and global trade integration.
DHL Global Forwarding, the freight specialist arm of DHL Group, has announced Aditi Rasquinha as the new CEO for its Greater China division, effective August 1, 2024. Rasquinha succeeds Steve Huang, who retired after over three decades of service with the DHL Group. "We are thrilled to have Aditi rejoin DHL Global Forwarding," said Niki Frank, CEO of Asia Pacific, DHL Global Forwarding. "Her familiarity with our organisation, combined with her extensive experience and leadership in the logistics industry, will be invaluable as she leads the Greater China market. This region offers a lot of opportunities for us and our customers, and I am confident Aditi will bring a fresh perspective and help build on our success here." Rasquinha began her career with the DHL Group in 2005 as a Business Analyst in Singapore's Global Customer Solutions team. Over the next five years, she advanced to become the Director of Strategic Ocean Freight Accounts at DHL Global Forwarding Singapore. Her last role at DHL was Director of Ocean Freight at DHL Global Forwarding Malaysia in 2014. Following her tenure at DHL, Rasquinha gained further experience with Kuehne + Nagel, where she served as Ocean Freight Head for Thailand and the Netherlands. Most recently, she was the Head of Ocean Freight Asia Pacific at DB Schenker since 2021. "I am excited about the role and look forward to accelerating the growth momentum at DHL Global Forwarding Greater China," Rasquinha said. "Returning to DHL feels like coming home, and I look forward to reconnecting with my colleagues and bringing new ideas to the table. We have many opportunities to do more in this region, especially with our launch of the electric vehicle (EV) Centre of Excellence in Shanghai." This strategic appointment underscores DHL's commitment to leveraging seasoned leadership to navigate and capitalise on market opportunities in Greater China.
Camillo Fontana has been appointed Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Hanseatic Global Terminals (HGT), effective 1 August 2024. HGT, part of Hapag-Lloyd's Terminal and Infrastructure division, holds stakes in 20 container terminals across Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Africa. Fontana brings over 15 years of finance experience in container shipping and land logistics. He began his career at MSC in Geneva as a Finance Manager, later becoming Regional CFO for Asia and the Middle East, based in Singapore, in 2014. In 2018, he was appointed CFO of Medlog, MSC's land logistics division, a role he held until 2022. For the past two years, Fontana has been a board member for several MSC agencies and Head of the MSC Group CFO Office. "We are delighted that with Camillo, we have found a very experienced financial expert to be the new CFO of Hanseatic Global Terminals," said Dheeraj Bhatia, Chief Terminal and Infrastructure Officer of Hapag-Lloyd and CEO of HGT. "We have ambitious growth plans with HGT and will make major investments in quality, efficiency, and sustainability. Managing the related financial aspects will be crucial." Fontana's extensive experience is expected to support HGT's strategic initiatives and growth ambitions effectively.
Jeena Criticare Logistics, the healthcare arm of Jeena & Company, has promoted Prakash Singh to Chief Operating Officer (COO). With over 9 years at Jeena, Singh brings extensive experience in international cold chain freight forwarding and domestic supply chain management to his new role. Since joining in 2016, Singh has held various key positions, significantly contributing to Jeena & Company’s success in the pharmaceutical sector. As COO, he will spearhead strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, business development, financial oversight, and innovation at Jeena Criticare Logistics. Singh’s responsibilities will also encompass quality control, leadership development, stakeholder engagement, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations. He aims to optimise performance, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and expand the company’s market presence. “Singh has been an invaluable asset to the company and the team. His understanding of the business and client requirements, coupled with his insights, has made him an essential member of Jeena & Company for nearly a decade. We are confident that entrusting him with these additional responsibilities will further enhance our success and contribute significantly to the business,” stated the Partners at Jeena & Company. Commenting on his appointment, Singh said, “My journey with Jeena & Company has been incredibly rewarding. I am excited to embrace this new and vital role and look forward to further elevating our operations at Jeena Criticare Logistics. This opportunity marks a significant step towards fostering long-term growth.” Singh holds a Science degree from Rajasthan University, a Diploma in Modern Business Strategies from EQP Business School Sweden, and an MBA focused on Marketing, Finance, and Supply Chain from Siva Sivani Institute, Hyderabad. His vast experience includes domestic and international cold chain management, DGR, clinical trials, and healthcare logistics.
The Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) announced significant leadership appointments aimed at strengthening its management team. The Board of Directors has approved the appointment of P.K. Mishra as Managing Director and T.K. Sahu as Joint Managing Director, effective August 1, 2024. P.K. Mishra, who has been with IRS for 26 years, previously served as Joint Managing Director. He brings a wealth of experience and a profound understanding of the maritime industry. His vision and leadership skills are anticipated to drive IRS to new heights, continuing its legacy of excellence and innovation. T.K. Sahu, with a 22-year tenure at IRS, will assume the role of Joint Managing Director. Sahu has held several key positions within the organisation, and his technical expertise and strategic approach are expected to enhance the leadership team, ensuring a seamless transition and sustained growth for IRS. “We are excited about the future with P.K. Mishra and T.K. Sahu at the helm,” said Arun Sharma, Executive Chairman. “Their combined experience and dedication to the maritime sector will undoubtedly steer IRS towards greater success. These leadership appointments mark a new chapter in the organisation’s journey, and we look forward to continued success under the new leadership.” These appointments reflect IRS's commitment to fostering strong leadership to navigate the dynamic maritime industry. With P.K. Mishra and T.K. Sahu leading the way, IRS is poised for a promising future, marked by innovation, growth, and continued dedication to excellence in maritime services.
The Federation of Freight Forwarders’ Associations in India (FFFAI) held its 6th EC Meeting for the term 2021-23 on May 27 and 28 in Bengaluru. The meeting was attended by the Office Bearers and 28 Member Association representative of FFFAI from across the country, there were many issues discussed and updates provided concerning customs, CBLR, EDI, Service Tax/GST, logistics, air cargo, sea cargo, skill development,importance of social media which FFFAI has expanded recently, technology developments, etc. The special focus of the 6th EC meeting was the updates on forthcoming 24th Biennial Convention of FFFAI to be held from August 12 to 14, 2022 in Chennai with the theme LOGISTICS RESHAPE, EMBRACE AND SURGE IN THE DIGITAL ERA. At this EC meeting, FFFAI also implemented Digital Learning platform for members and next generation for e-learning. It has been decided that FFFAI would initiate FIATA eFBL here in India to benefit the trade, which empowers customs brokers, freight forwarders and logistics service providers. In addition, updates on the recently held FIATA HQ Meet was also provided by the concerned members of FFFAI. FFFAI members present at this EC meeting stressed upon enhancing productivity on ICEGATE for trade facilitation and Ease of Doing Business. The FFFAI members also urged for creating a dedicated portal for LSP integration. As regard to skill development initiatives, IIFF’s (training arm of FFFAI) past and forthcoming training programmes (both online and classroom/physical) for the entire logistics industry were presented at the EC meeting. In addition, FFFAI’s various initiatives on capacity building through technology/IT also discussed withadequate importance. Recent activities of FFFAI Women’s Wing including organising interactive meetings with Government of India officials and industry experts were highlighted at this meeting which drew huge appreciation from the members. The members committed to expand the activities of the Women’s Wing in all the 28 member association locations to empower/encourage the women logistics practitioners. At this EC meeting FFFAI has signed an MoU with the National Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE) with an objective of skilling the aspiring candidates looking for opportunities in the logistics sector. Notably, a special session was organised at this 6th EC Meeting where N Sivasailam, former Special Secretary (Logistics), Ministry of Commerce, Government of India was present to address the FFFAI members and highlight the recent initiatives of the government in strengthening the logistics infrastructure, thereby leading in increase of international trade through multimodal connectivity and faster cargo clearance. He projected the ambitious growth potential of the logistics industry in India with a strong collaboration between government and industry people. Also speaking on the occasion was Bani Bhattacharya, IRS, who interacted with members of FFFAI on various initiatives of CBIC for the trade facilitation without human intervention. FFFAI Chairman Shankar Shinde thanked all the 28 associations for their support and appreciated the contribution of CBIC/DG systems trade facilitation measures. FFFAI Member Associations are: 1. Ahmedabad Custom Brokers' Association2. Aurangabad Customs House Agents Association3. Association of Custom House Agents Thiruvanthapuram4. Bangalore Custom House Agents Association5. Brihnamumbai Custom Brokers Association6. Calcutta Customs House Agents Association7. Chennai Customs House Agents Association8. Cochin Customs Brokers' Association9. Coimbatore Customs House and Steamer Agents Association10. Custom Brokers Association Hyderabad11. Delhi Customs Brokers Association12. Goa Custom Brokers Association13.Indore Customs House Agents Association14. The Kakinada Customs Brokers Association15. Kandla Custom Brokers Association16. Kanpur Customs Brokers Association17. Ludhiana Customs House Agents Association18. Mangalore Customs House Agents Association19. Mundra Customs Brokers Association20. Nagpur Customs House Agents Association21. Nashik Customs House Agents Association22. Nadia Custom Brokers Association23. Pipavav Custom Brokers Association24. Pune Customs House Agents Association25. Rajasthan Customs House Agents Association26.Tuticorin Custom Brokers Association27.Visakhapatnam Cusotms Brokers' Association28.West Bengal Custom House Agents Society FFFAI welcomes Women in Logistics/Youth in Logistics to participate on FFFAI forums and also invites membership application form logistics service providers in industry as this is a big national and international forum to network.
Ecom Express Limited, India’s sole pure-play B2C e-commerce logistics provider as of the Financial Year 2024, has introduced a new brand identity, underscoring its commitment to customer-centricity. This rebranding reflects a focus on addressing specific customer needs, prioritising customer-facing metrics, and integrating innovative technology across its nationwide express logistics network. The goal is to enhance speed, agility, and network reach, ensuring a customer-focused approach. The rebranding includes a dynamic logo and a refreshed visual identity, symbolising Ecom Express’s pursuit of excellence. The new logo features a forward-moving arrow within a square, representing the company’s dedication to delivery. The letter "E" in the logo stands for Expression, Innovation, and Progress, while the bold magenta colour signifies bravery, self-expression, and strength. This vibrant magenta reintroduction reflects Ecom Express's renewed commitment to customers, partners, and team members, as the company aims to simplify and democratise logistics for all. Ajay Chitkara, CEO and MD of Ecom Express, elaborated on the transformation, stating, “Our refreshed brand identity reaffirms our customer-first approach as we continue to integrate technology and innovation to provide reliable, high-speed services with the widest network reach. This transformation also underscores our commitment to our employees and delivery partners, who are essential to our business.” The new logo embodies Ecom Express’s dedication to its core values, focusing on customer welfare and fostering a diverse, inclusive environment. This rebranding signifies a promise to redefine logistics through advanced technology, making life easier for all types of customers.
ESR India, the largest APAC focused industrial and logistics real estate platform, has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Tamil Nadu for a potential investment of INR 550 crores. The MOU is signed for the launch of two industrial parks in Kancheepuram and Krishnagiri districts of the state over the next five years. Once fully operational, the two projects have the potential to create over 4,400 jobs in the facility, that shall boost the overall socio-economic growth in the region. The MoU was signed at the Investment Conclave 2021 conference held today. It will facilitate ESR India’s proposed investment at Kancheepuram and Krishnagiri industrial parks by helping in streamlining land acquisition, approvals, clearances, and administrative processes as per existing policies, rules, and regulations of the Government of Tamil Nadu. The policy and regulatory reforms unveiled in recent times has accentuated the entry of international institutional players and has set new benchmarks for industrial developments in the country. Commenting on the development, Abhijit Malkani, CEO and Country Head, ESR India said, “We are delighted to announce our affiliation with the state government. The Government of Tamil Nadu has been very supportive in encouraging industrial developments in the state by creating a favourable business climate for industrial players. The MoU will see ESR invest INR 550 crores to develop industrial parks in Tamil Nadu, offering 1,800 direct and 2,600 indirect job opportunities in the facility.” “Our goals are aligned with the vision of the Tamil Nadu government, to create avenues to increase business and trade inclusion opportunities and employment towards garnering better economic growth in the region,” he further stated. ESR India is currently present across 9 cities and 15 locations with a total GFA of 18 mn sq ft. These state-of-the-art facilities will be developed upholding the best practices for ESG and sustainability.
Mahindra World City Jaipur (MWC Jaipur), a joint venture between Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd (MLDL) and Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation (RIICO) announced it concluded 26 new lease agreements between April 2021 and June 2022. The new signings included both new customers and expansion of facilities by existing clients, together leasing about 137 acres of land. In the same period, MWC Jaipur and its constituent units' aggregated investments crossed Rs 721 crores, and cumulative exports by MWC Jaipur exceeded Rs 15,930 crores, of which Rs 3,321 crores were in the last 15 months. Over these fifteen months, a total of 69 companies have completed their facility buildout at MWC Jaipur and become operational. The new entrants to MWC Jaipur represent a variety of sectors, like Logistics and Warehousing, IT & ITeS, Engineering, Furniture Manufacturing, Solar Energy, Gems and Jewelry manufacturing. The newly added roster of clients at MWC Jaipur includes Wipro Hydraulics, Shakti Hormann, Renew Photovoltaics, Kerakoll India, Normet, Gulmohar Lane Lifestyle, Manor & Mews, J Atelier Pink City, Kamal Coach Works, Maxop Engineering, amongst others. Rajaram Pai, Chief Business Officer – Industrial, Mahindra Lifespaces said, “MWC Jaipur today is home to prestigious domestic and international manufacturing companies from across the world, who have established a manufacturing base in India for the first time. Enabling business acceleration for customers has always been our focus. We continue to deliver the highest urbanisation standards by leveraging innovation, thoughtful design, and a deep commitment to sustainability. MWC Jaipur contributes towards generating incremental employment and income for the state while creating world-class infrastructure which would serve the nation for many years to come. We are glad to be the enablers of Make-in-India and Make-for-India.” Becoming a preferred destination of choice for over 121 global and domestic companies, MWC Jaipur is enabling business growth for customers by crafting a conducive environment, with robust infrastructure and facilities that propagate ease of doing business. Mahindra World City Jaipur is the first project in Asia to receive Climate Positive Development Stage 2 Certification from the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group (C40), a global network of large cities taking action to address climate change. With a focus on climate-positive development, MWC Jaipur is continuing its efforts on integrating sustainability within the city. Green, integrated developments is continuously being upgraded to mitigate the impact of business operations on the environment. As of March 31, 2022, a total of 59,955 trees have been planted in government-approved forest areas and rural areas under the Mahindra Group’s flagship program – Hariyali. Around 11,100 trees have been planted within the industrial park.
The Uttar Pradesh government is set to develop a multi-modal logistics hub (MMLH) in Greater Noida’s Dadri, investing Rs 7,064 crore to support its $1 trillion economy goal. This hub will cover 823 acres, with a core development area spanning 455 acres. Key developments include commercial and administrative facilities over 17.5 acres, a rail yard, and other projects across 350 acres. Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s directives, a detailed action plan has been designed to expedite these initiatives. The Dadri MMLH aims to become a world-class freight handling facility, functioning as a dry port to ensure the swift transit of goods and raw materials. This project is poised to be India's largest logistics hub. Located on the eastern and western dedicated freight corridors, it will serve as a central hub for container handling, warehousing, cold storage, processing, de-stuffing, stuffing, and value-added packing. Providing seamless rail connectivity, the hub will feature rail platforms, customs clearance facilities, cargo segregation areas, truck parking zones, and extensive green spaces. The project is being developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, supervised by the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority and adhering to the guidelines of the National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT). The Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority has prepared the Master Detailed Project Report (DPR) for constructing the approach track and Rail Over Rail (ROR) bridge from New Dadri station to the MMLH boundary. The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL) has approved the DPR for railway tracks and terminal stations within the MMLH. Additionally, the tender documentation for land acquisition and signaling processes for the approach track has been finalized. Concurrently, the development of trunk infrastructure, including boundary work, roads, canals, bridges, utility relocation, and water and power supply, is progressing through various phases.
