A rise through the ranks in project logistics is not an uncommon sight, and judging by the responses we have been getting for the People of the industry features, people who deal with the complexities of transporting the cargo on the spot are the ones who should be listened to more. The operational, on-site experience is invaluable. 

Listening to the story of Marijn van Zeben, Operational Manager Germany at Lubbers Logistics, we can only confirm that people who have the operational experience can be the ones to bring the right solutions to the table. While in his current position, van Zeben is tasked with planning, client communication and team support, his daily tasks can be a lot more challenging, such as coming up with solutions that are out of the box, literally and figuratively.

But sometimes for the likes of van Zeben who has experience in the field, answers to these out of the box questions are straight forward and practicable.

Gathering experience in the field

Starting in 1996 as an International truck driver, going all over Europe for the oil and gas industry, Marijn van Zeben, has had plenty of time to observe and learn the tricks of the trade from the front line. “After nine years being on the road, a position came free in the office to be a planner,” he said.

However, it seems that the transition to the office is not as easy for someone used to the freedom of open road. Still, van Zeben was able to hone his skills and use his operational experience to come up with practical solutions.

He went from a truck driver, to a planner and has held a number of other positions, such as General Manager Romania, before taking up his current role. He highlighted the fact that Lubbers is such a company that he was able to learn and is still learning from many of his colleagues.

He added that, for anyone looking to grow through an industry, transport is a good starting point, and an underestimated business for people looking from the outside. Opportunities are plenty and are there to be taken.

Read also: 

• Juggling time zones with Gaurika Gurugamage, GAC North America
• “It started the day I was born,” Ard Suvaal, TGP
• From road to the sea, the story of José-Antonio Del Río, UECC