In 2008 the project with Seaway came to a conclusion and I decided to have a break from the industry. At this time my brother was trying to build his commercial cleaning enterprise. Using my experience gained setting up many logistics businesses I was able to apply these skills in a different industry.During my time Matt Hygiene/Dacco Ltd, I have been able to professionalise the business and have achieved the following:Migrated the enterprise to a limited companySet up of accounts and payroll systemsAchieve ISO9000 accreditationCreated Operating Procedures for all client sitesAttracted the largest ever client for the company (circa £200k/annum)The business is in a stable condition and primed for future growth. In August14 my brothers business partner decided he wanted to exit and I have acquired his shares.

Working at its 3rd party site at Gillette Reading. .FMCG Customisation and Point of Sale operation involved building displays from components and filling them with product ready for distribution retail outlets. 80,000 display units built and filled within 5 weeks All delivered on time and in good order even though severe capacity constraints. Involved co-ordinating with main site service provider (DHL/EXEL) (120+ temporary workers on two shifts 24/7 in an area normally employing 10 staff)

Prepared comprehensive business plan for purchase of a struggling port operation.The site consisted of a 100m berth, Sheds totalling 30,000sqm and a further 30,000sqm of yard area.New company formed for the turnaround. Negotiated purchase of company. Involved in all aspects of the business turnaround including:HR– TUPE research – identifying company’s risks – Setting salary levels, preparation of job descriptions / contracts of employment and redesign of site layout. Successfully migrated the company onto completely new systems throughout and dramatically improved stock integrity. Increased covered capacity by utilising unused 1st floor within the sheds. This resulted in an additional 20,000sqm being made available for higher value business.

Started as employee and became Director and Shareholder. I introduced the business to internet/email. Started groupage services between Italy/NL/UK. Successfully quoted for and was awarded a major fashion distribution centre contract in the netherlands. I was also Director responsible for the JV that was created to start up the operation. (Seaway International Logistics BV - WAS Logistics)

Appointed to manage the UK branch of a European company (Italian based). Quickly built up a relationship with all its UK clients and and increased business volumes by 40% in first year. Sales campaigns in Italy visiting existing clients and new prospects.

Created the business. Successfully started Swedish export service. Opened own warehouse and also acted as freight forwarder, shipping lcl/fcl worldwide.

Danish Import groupage department manager.

Scandinavian groupage services, warehousing and distribution

Launched a Container groupage service to Finland utilising a Ro/Ro vessel, which previously had only accepted Trailers. The vessel schedule was more favourable to UK exporters and therefore we were able to offer a more competitive alternative to Trailer services whilst taking advantage of the better routing.