For our next Atlas member interview, we talked to Omair Samiullah from Karachi, Pakistan. Among other things, we discussed how he got an interested for the logistics industry, the need for limitation of major shipping lines and the importance of always presenting your customers with a positive solution.
How did you get started in the logistics industry and what has your journey been like so far?
I started my Career in 2011 in the Japanese automotive industry as a broker, were we purchased vehicles from various Japanese auction houses on the customers’ behalf. I had to ship out all the purchased units from Japan to the countries from where the auction vehicles were purchased. So I came to know about the logistics industry and, from there, developed an interest for it.
In 2013, I joined a logistics company, which was the best decision of my life. The logistics industry has given me a much broader and vaster knowledge of how buyers & sellers are facilitated through logistics support.
If there is one thing that you could change to the logistics industry, what would it be and why?
I would limit the options for exporters & importers, as the logistics industry is so vast and customers have so many options that they manipulate things in their favor before nominating the consignment. As a result, freight forwarders are suffering very badly. There should also be some uniform limitation for the major shipping lines, as they are so desperate to jump in wherever they can and get direct access to exporters.
What do you like most about the industry and your job in particular?
If you are part of the logistics industry, every day starts with new challenges to fulfill the customers’ requirements. Customers always come with problems and queries, we have to present them a positive solution.
How do you set yourself apart from your competitors?
At the start of my career, my mentor asked me this question for educational purposes. In your industry, everyone is selling the same products and services, so why should customers nominate you to handle their expensive and valuable cargo?
After I gave him various answers, he advised me to stand in the customer’s shoes and try to learn what issues they face when they want to move their cargo, and give them solutions.This is why we try to choose the most difficult job which no other competitor is willing to take as a challenge.
What do you like the most about being a member of our logistics network?
I have attended various network meetings, but I have two words to say about the Atlas Network: “excellent and supportive network management.”
When I met my fellow Atlas members for the first time, it felt as if I had known them since a long time. I was also able to increase my business thanks to the network members’ support.
How do you relax in your free time?
Spending time with my family.
Thank you, Omair!
