In this edition of Apollo in the Spotlight, we speak with Carlos Florez, a seasoned logistics leader and driving force behind SC Cargo SAS in Cartagena, Colombia. With decades of hands-on experience across the supply chain, Carlos shares his perspective on innovation, talent development, and the evolving role of technology in logistics. His journey offers valuable insights for Apollo members navigating an increasingly complex and fast-moving global trade environment.
We’d love to hear your story – how did you get started in the logistics world, and what motivated you to stay?
I began my journey in logistics in 1994. My family owned a customs brokerage firm in Colombia, and during my school vacations I was constantly looking for something productive to do. I asked my father for work, and he placed me at a customs bonded warehouse supporting one of our clients, Xerox. My role was basic—recording serial numbers from machines and parts—but it introduced me to the operational heart of logistics.
From there, my curiosity grew. I learned every area within the company: accounting, imports, exports, port operations, and more. What kept me in this industry is its constant dynamism—no two clients are alike, and no two days feel the same. Logistics never gets boring, and that energy is what has kept me motivated throughout the years.
What does innovation mean to you in the context of logistics, and how do you foster it in your organization?
For us, innovation is fundamentally about information transparency and real‑time visibility. We have invested heavily in our internal system to ensure clients can access live location updates, real‑time import status, and immediate document availability. This alone has drastically reduced the volume of operational calls from customers—and even from their own customs brokers.
In our 2025 service evaluation, our system achieved a 96% approval rating from clients, which validated the investment. Additionally, improved visibility and process automation have reduced customs-related fines by nearly 100%, demonstrating that innovation isn’t just technological—it’s operational excellence.
Do you believe AI will replace certain logistics roles, or simply empower them? Why?
I believe AI will enhance roles rather than replace them. AI will make processes faster, more visible, and more predictable, allowing teams to focus on higher‑value decision-making instead of manual administrative tasks. It will strengthen human capability—not eliminate it.
What part of the supply chain do you think gets underestimated – and why?
Customs brokerage is often underestimated. In many countries the process is relatively simple, but in Colombia it’s a highly complex, detail‑driven function that requires advance planning, close coordination with customers, and a deep understanding of their products. Assumptions can lead to critical errors; success depends on diligence and constant communication.
Another underestimated area is compliance. With the volume of data and regulations today, ensuring a partner’s legal, financial, and operational integrity is essential. In Colombia, due diligence can take up to a week just to gather required documentation, but skipping this step can create far greater risks.
Is there a specific project or achievement in your career that you’re particularly proud of? Tell us about it.
Rather than a single project, one of the achievements I value most as a business owner is our commitment to hiring young talent. We give them the opportunity to learn, grow, and build a career with us. Retaining the best people has become more challenging over time, but developing young professionals remains a core part of our vision and something I am truly proud of.
You’ve been with us for a few months now – how has the journey been so far? Any highlights or surprises?
For more than 16 years we worked with a single global partner, so we were very comfortable in that ecosystem. Joining this new environment has been a significant change—we've had to rebuild trust, connect with new teams, and adapt to different ways of working. It’s been refreshing and challenging in the best way, pushing us to grow and evolve.
What’s the funniest or strangest item you’ve ever had to transport?
We once handled a shipment for a well‑known fashion designer who needed clothing brought from Spain for a show in Bogotá. Given the brand’s prestige, we expected carefully packaged, delicate garments. Instead, the shipment arrived looking—and smelling—like a giant used sock. It was unexpected, memorable, and definitely one of the strangest shipments we’ve worked with.
Thank you, Carlos for sharing your insights with the Apollo network.
