In this month’s edition of The Voice of Atlas, we had the pleasure of speaking with Chandana Ambrose from HTL Logistics in India. With over 25 years of experience, Chandana shares his journey in logistics, the challenges he’s faced, and his insights on the rapidly evolving industry. Join us as we delve into his career and gain a behind-the-scenes look at the logistics world.
How did you get started in the logistics industry, and what has your journey been like up to this point?
I started in the logistics industry just after finishing secondary school. My first role was as a logistics field coordinator, where I quickly learned the intricacies of supply chain operations. Over the years, I’ve moved through various roles—from imports to exports, air and sea, to country manager—each providing unique challenges and learning experiences. My journey has been marked by a commitment to continuous improvement and a passion for optimizing processes.
What’s the most exciting or memorable project or shipment you’ve been involved with recently?
That would definitely be the COVID period of 2020/2021. Coordinating with multiple stakeholders and ensuring timely delivery was exhilarating, especially since we all had to work from home. It was incredibly rewarding to know that our efforts and hard work yielded tremendous results given the challenging circumstances.
What do you enjoy must about the logistics industry, and what makes your role particularly fulfilling?
The dynamic nature of logistics keeps you on your toes—every day brings new challenges. For me, the fulfilment comes from knowing that our work supports businesses and helps keep economies running smoothly.
Could you describe a difficult moment in your career that shaped the way you work today?
One of the most challenging moments has been the maritime issues we currently face, particularly with unsafe passages via the Middle Eastern routes. Finding alternative routes that are both efficient and economical has been incredibly difficult, yet not impossible. This experience taught me that thinking outside the box is key to staying in the game, especially in such a volatile environment.
How do you view the Indian market for the rest of this year leading into 2025?
Over the past few years, I’ve witnessed rapid growth in the Indian market, driven by increased digitalization and a push for sustainable logistics practices. India has evolved rapidly, particularly in the electronics, automobile, and renewable energy sectors, faster than many other emerging markets.
What is one think you enjoy must about being a member of Atlas community?
I truly appreciate the collaborative spirit within the logistics community. Networking with professionals who share insights and best practices fosters growth and innovation, which is inspiring.
When you’re not focusing on logistics, how do you like to unwind and enjoy your free time?
I mostly enjoy spending time with my family, as well as watching and playing sports. These activities help me recharge and provide a refreshing break from the fast-paced world of logistics.
What’s one think your colleagues would be surprised to learn about you?
It’s been 25 years for me with HTL, so my colleagues know me nearly inside out! Not much would surprise them at this point, but if anything, perhaps my passion for cooking. Some of my colleagues know this already, but it might come as a surprise to others.
Thank you, Chandana for sharing your story with us!
