Celebrating International Women’s Day: Catherine’s 26-Year Journey in Logistics

In celebration of tomorrow’s International Women’s Day, we had the pleasure of interviewing our Strategic Account Manager, Catherine, to highlight her impressive 26 years in the logistics industry!
From Quality Management to miniature Schnauzers let’s look at her journey at Simarco…

How long have you worked at Simarco?

I have been with Simarco for 26 years, and it has been an incredible journey of growth and change.

Can you share an overview of your career journey at Simarco, including the roles you’ve held and the departments you’ve worked in?

I started in the European Operations department, handling both exports and imports. After some time, I was given the opportunity to establish the Administration department, which started with just me and has since grown to a team of 15. I also took on ISO compliance for our Crittall Road site and held the position of Administration and Quality Manager. Wanting a new challenge, I transitioned into my current role as Strategic Account Manager in May 2024, where I now manage key customers.

What personal goals and interests have you achieved in your personal life over the period you have worked at Simarco.

During my time at Simarco, I have travelled, visiting places including Honduras and Brazil, I am focused on my physical wellbeing, I exercise regularly, also have a deep interest in animals, especially our black and silver miniature Schnauzers, this promotes many happy cross country walks.

How do you think our workplace supports gender equality?

Simarco has given me the opportunity to step into new and challenging roles throughout my career. From building a department from scratch to now managing key accounts and overseeing sea freight operations, I’ve always been encouraged to grow and develop my skills.

What’s one-way women have positively influenced your professional journey?

My mum always made me believe women can do anything they put their minds to given the opportunity.

If you could implement one company-wide initiative to empower women, what would it be?

I would introduce a mentorship program, specifically designed to connect female employees with senior female leaders across different departments, providing targeted career development guidance and opportunities for sponsorship; this would address the gender gap in leadership roles by actively supporting women’s advancement within the organisation.

If you could swap lives with a famous woman for a day, who would it be?

Dian Fossey!

What are some small but meaningful actions that leaders can take to support women in the workplace?

Leaders can encourage women to take on new challenges, actively recognise their contributions, and ensure that opportunities for career growth are equally accessible.

Have you ever had a female mentor or leader who made a significant impact on your career? What did you learn from them?

Looking back, there was one woman when I first started in logistics, who took me under her wing and mentored me, she always used to say to me that I could go far and she was always pushing me out of my comfort zone. I think it was then that I realised the possibilities of progression.

What advice would you give to women looking to advance their careers?

Don’t be afraid to take on new challenges, even if they push you outside of your comfort zone. My career has evolved in ways I didn’t expect, from administration to strategic account management and now overseeing sea freight operations. Each new opportunity has helped me grow, and saying ‘yes’ to challenges has been key to my success no matter how scary it might sound.

What does ‘empowering women at work’ look like to you?

It means giving women the same opportunities for growth and leadership, supporting them in their ambitions, and ensuring their voices are heard.

Have you noticed any positive changes in gender equality at work over the years? What still needs improvement?

Logistics has always been a very male dominated industry, and it still is, but there have been noticeable positive changes, including more women in leadership roles, but in my opinion still not enough, I think women need to step forward and believe in themselves but there also needs to be the recognition of skillset no matter the gender.

Get to Know Steve: New Transport Manager at Stoke-on-Trent Depot in a Quick-Fire Interview

We’re excited to introduce Steve, our new Transport Manager based at our Stoke-on-Trent depot!

With his expertise and passion for logistics, Steve is ready to keep things moving smoothly and efficiently.
Come and join us in getting to know Steve in this fast-paced quick-fire interview!

Tell us about your background and how long you have worked in the industry?

I have worked in transport / logistics since the mid 1990’s, working for large companies in the dairy, logistics and car parts industry.

Can you describe your day-to-day responsibilities as a transport manager?

Putting it simply, to deliver and collect everything in full, on time, safely and legally compliant.

If you could drive any vehicle in the world for a day, what would it be?

I have two, I love all things Aston Martin so a silver DB5 (the first Bond car) or a black or silver mark 1 Golf GTI – my dream everyday car.

What’s the most memorable thing you’ve ever had to transport?

Delivering a stationary order for her majesty to Sandringham in Norfolk.

If your fleet could have a theme song, what would it be?

‘A question of time’ by Depeche Mode because when it comes to transport and logistics it is a question of time very often.

Imagine you’re designing the ultimate transport manager’s dream office – what’s in it?

An all seeing and hearing command centre a bit like NASA.

What’s one thing about transport management that would surprise most people?

It’s very rare you can say I’ve done everything because there is always something to do.

What’s your personal “golden rule” for a smooth-running transport operation?

Always have a plan B and in some cases a plan C and D! Transport isn’t and never will be an exact science, and always where possible plan as much as you can.

If you could have any superpower to help with transport management, what would it be?

Being able to predict the future because in transport things can change in a split second.

Reducing Our Carbon Footprint with Ecologi!

Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. Through our partnership with Ecologi, we’re proud to have helped avoid 249 tonnes of CO₂e emissions – a significant step towards a greener future!

By supporting vital climate projects worldwide, we’re making a real difference. Our contributions have helped reduce methane emissions from landfills in Brazil and restore crucial peatlands in Indonesia – both critical for cutting greenhouse gases and protecting ecosystems.

To put this impact into perspective, our emissions savings are equivalent to preventing 191 long-haul flights, preserving 747 square meters of sea ice or the emissions of 617,670 miles driven in a car. Every effort counts in the fight against climate change, and we’re committed to doing our part.

Sustainability in logistics isn’t just a goal—it’s a responsibility. We will continue investing in eco-friendly initiatives and driving positive change across the supply chain. Together, we can build a cleaner, healthier planet for future generations!

Inspiring the Next Generation: Simarco Takes Part in Year 11 Mock Interviews in Witham

Last week, our Recruitment lead, Karen, had the honour of participating in the Year 11 Mock Interviews at Maltings Academy, Witham. This wonderful event was designed to provide students with a glimpse into the formal application process for colleges, further education, apprenticeships, and part-time jobs.

Karen volunteered to represent Simarco, providing insightful tips and guidance to students seeking Retail Assistant positions with a prominent high-street retailer. The session covered a variety of both general and detailed interview questions, as well as vital skills such as personal presentation, CV writing and creating effective cover letters.

Karen said, “I was incredibly impressed by the local students. Once they overcame their initial nerves and uncertainty about what to expect, they delivered brilliant responses. Hopefully, this experience has given them a glimpse of what an interview entails – whether it’s for a full-time position, an apprenticeship, or a Saturday job – and will help them succeed in their chosen careers!”

Team Simarco is immensely proud to support our local community and contribute to shaping the future workforce.

Follow us on social media for all latest news and events!

Loved by the entire nation, Team Simarco proudly presents Christmas Jumper Day!

☃️ Amidst frosted snowmen, tinsel-adorned Christmas trees, and cheerful “Ho Ho Ho’s”, everyone pulled out their favourite Christmas sweaters for a festive themed day in the office.

Raffles and giveaways sprinkled some extra sparkle into the day as we raised funds for the amazing The Peter Pan Centre for Children with Special Needs and our nominated charity, Trust Links!

Santa we’re ready! 🎅

Spreading Christmas Cheer: Simarco Donates Gifts to The Salvation Army Across the UK

Thanks to the kindness of our colleagues at Team Simarco, we have brought a touch of festive magic to families in need this Christmas. 

In the spirit of spreading Christmas cheer, our employees made donations nationwide to The Salvation Army Present Appeal.

Last year, The Salvation Army provided over 84,000 gifts throughout the UK. This year, the charity anticipates an increase in the number of families seeking assistance, and our gifts are sure to bring joy to children less fortunate than ourselves.

A heartfelt festive thank you to those who donated. 🙏

🎄Wishing all families a very merry Christmas! 🤲

Simarco Expands Moss Road Warehouse in Witham to Enhance Logistics Capabilities.

We are pleased to announce the expansion of our Moss Road Warehouse based in Witham, Essex.

Earlier this year we acquired an additional warehousing space adjacent to our Moss Road establishment.

Our expertise in freight and warehouse management means we oversee the storage of some of the world’s largest brands, both as a 3PL and 4PL supplier.

Why do they trust us? Because we provide the highest levels of customer service, security and up to date IT integrated solutions – providing transparent data at every stage of the consignment process.

🤳 Get in touch now to discuss your storage opportunities. 📲

Simarco Hosts Annual Leadership Conference with Industry Experts and Inspiring Speakers

On November 6th we opened the doors at Stoke By Nayland Resort and welcomed leaders from across the business to join us for our annual Simarco Leadership Conference – kicked off by our CEO Simon Reed.

Alongside updates from our Managing Director Trevor Scott and Heads of Departments, Team Simarco also welcomed guest speakers, Samantha Brocklehurst, Client Experience Director for Maersk, Chris Moore from Let’s Be More and Paralympian Danny Crates PLY from 1404 Performance.

Our speakers filled the day with their insights, humorous talks and engaging team building activities, giving us all lots to think about as we look forward into 2025.

Empowering and upskilling our employees is the key to agility within our business.

Leading as a team, is how we move forward together.

Simarco Advances Environmental Goals with 16,280 Trees Planted Through Ecologi

We are pleased to announce that, through our ongoing commitment to the Ecologi project, we have financed the planting of 16,280 trees over the past two years.

Trees play a crucial role in our ecosystem; absorbing tonnes of CO2 and purifying the air we breathe. Additionally, they offer nutrients and shelter for wildlife, making them indispensable to our environment.

According to CPRE, The Countryside Charity, a mature tree has the ability to absorb 22kg of CO2 annually. Considering that the average carbon footprint of a typical individual in the UK is approximately 10 tonnes each year, it would require around 450 mature trees to balance out the annual emissions of a single person.

Our ongoing support throughout the years has contributed to the planting of 16,280 trees across nineteen Ecologi projects, which include:

1. 5,612 trees at the Mangrove planting project in Madagascar
2. 2,952 trees at the Flourishing Future for Gewocha project in Ethiopia
3. 2,364 trees at the Forest Restoration project in Kenya
4. 1,121 trees at the Mangrove planting in Irregele Milato, Mozambique

We are wholeheartedly committed to doing what we can to build a sustainable world around us, prioritising both people and the planet.

Simarco Joins Fight Against Breast Cancer with Charity Bake Event.

From mouth-watering cupcakes to gooey chocolate brownies, Team Simarco whipped up a pink themed baking bonanza in support of October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

As reported by Cancer Research UK, Breast Cancer is the UK’s most common type of Cancer, and thanks to the charitable funds raised and the comprehensive research conducted over the years, today, eight out of ten women diagnosed with breast cancer are expected to survive their illness for a decade or longer. 🎗️

Team Simarco, committed to making a difference. 💗

“Together we are beating cancer”.