Tell us a bit about how your journey began – was it something you always planned, or did it take you by surprise?
My route into logistics came through leadership rather than operations. ACC Shipping has over 42 years of history in global freight forwarding, and when I stepped into the Managing Director role, I saw an opportunity to build on that heritage while strengthening structured commercial growth and supporting ongoing modernization.
It wasn’t a childhood plan to enter logistics, but it quickly became clear how critical this industry is to everything around us. When supply chains move, economies move. That responsibility makes it an incredibly rewarding sector to lead in.
What trends or technologies are you most excited (or concerned) about in logistics right now?
I’m particularly interested in the smarter use of data, visibility tools, predictive analytics, and automation that allow businesses to make faster, more informed decisions.
What concerns me slightly is over-reliance on technology without maintaining human accountability. Logistics is relationship driven. Technology should enhance clarity and efficiency, not replace trust and experience.
Do you believe AI will replace certain logistics roles, or simply empower them? Why?
AI will empower more than it replaces. Routine tasks, documentation checks, rate comparisons, tracking updates can be enhanced through automation. That frees experienced professionals to focus on negotiation, relationship management, compliance judgement, and strategic problem solving. In freight forwarding especially, experience and human decision-making remain essential when the unexpected happens.
Is there a specific project or achievement that you’re particularly proud of? Tell us about it.
I’m proud of helping build on ACC’s strong 42-year foundation by developing greater commercial clarity and long-term strategic focus, while enhancing the visibility of our brand.
We’ve refined performance visibility, strengthened international partnerships, and introduced a more structured approach to sustainable growth. All while maintaining the reliability and service standards our clients expect.
For me, it’s about evolution rather than change. Through considered innovation, we are ensuring the business remains resilient, competitive, and forward-looking.
What do you wish someone had told you before you started in logistics?
That volatility is normal. Rates change. Regulations change. Global events shift markets overnight. The key is not trying to control volatility but building resilient systems and partnerships that allow you to adapt quickly.
You’ve been with us for a few months now, how has the journey been so far? Any highlights or surprises?
The experience has been positive. We’ve focused on building meaningful relationships rather than simply exchanging contact details.
What stands out is the professionalism within the network. There’s a genuine willingness to collaborate and support one another internationally, which is essential in today’s climate.
What’s one resource or feature within the network you think more members should take advantage of?
Direct relationship building. The greatest value of any network isn’t just the platform; it’s the conversations and that's where we are focusing our efforts. Members who proactively introduce themselves, understand each other’s strengths, and build trust early will always gain more from the partnership.
What’s the funniest or strangest item you’ve had to transport?
Over the years, the ACC team has handled a wide range of unusual requests. One that stands out was arranging the transportation of a person’s ashes, which required careful coordination and sensitivity.
On a very different note, we were also once asked to move an effigy head of a well-known U.S. president. A reminder that in logistics, no two days are ever quite the same.
Thank you to John Bishop for sharing his insights and experiences with us as part of this edition of Apollo in the Spotlight.
