Tell us a bit about how your journey in logistics began – was it something you always planned, or did it take you by surprise?
My journey in logistics began when I decided to follow in the footsteps of my father, who founded our company almost 40 years ago. When I had to choose my path after high school, I told myself it would be a shame not to continue his work one day, when he no longer could, and that is how it all began. Unfortunately, my father left us prematurely, and together with my family, we suddenly had to roll up our sleeves and learn quickly. With the support of our entire team, we worked hard to maintain a high level of service and continue improving. Today, I can say this is a goal we have achieved and continue to achieve every day.
What trends or technologies are you most excited (or concerned) about in logistics right now?
Technology is a wonderful tool that helps in many aspects of work and daily life, and as a millennial, I fully understand its positive impact.
In our work, it helps speed up processes and the exchange of information, increasing both the efficiency and speed of the service we offer. It also allows us to communicate with the whole world, expanding the possibilities for networking and international cooperation.
However, I also feel that technology has some disadvantages. The work we do, as we understand it at Viamar, is a personalized service tailored to the needs of each of our clients. For this reason, the human aspect is extremely important, and technology can sometimes take away from that.
It also makes market competition much tighter and, at times, unfair, because the excessive availability of information allows many companies to enter certain markets and sectors, even when these are not strictly part of their core business.
Artificial intelligence also tends to make the service increasingly impersonal and more focused on price rather than quality of service. Today, many questions or requests can be answered directly by a phone or computer, reducing the need to build real relationships with others.
So, like everything around us, technology has both positive and negative aspects. But as it becomes more and more part of our lives, the only thing we can do is adapt quickly, take advantage of its benefits, and always keep the human side at the center.
Sustainability is a hot topic in logistics. How Is your organization approaching eco-friendly practices?
Viamar is a small to medium-sized company that provides services, so in practical terms, we do not have a major environmental impact.
In our own small way, however, we try to take everyday precautions that help us become more eco-friendly, such as printing as little paper as possible and using air conditioning only when necessary.
At the moment, we do not have a formal policy in this direction, but we rely on the common sense and awareness of our entire team to make responsible choices in daily operations.
What do you enjoy most about the logistics industry, and what makes your role particularly fulfilling?
What I like most about my work, and what makes me love it so much, is the connection that is created between so many different parties: from the supplier to the transporter, from the shipping company to customs, all the way to the final customer.
Knowing that you are the link that helps people move all kinds of goods anywhere in the world is truly fascinating. It means being part of a giant mechanism that, in the end, helps “shorten” enormous geographical distances.
In my business role, I also have the opportunity to travel extensively, speak different languages, and connect with various cultures. Being able to see where our customers are, what they do with the goods we transport for them, and understanding their territories and challenges allows us to offer a service that is increasingly tailored to their needs.
And there is nothing more beautiful than seeing our customers happy and satisfied.
What advice would you give to young women considering a career in logistics, especially those who may feel intimidated by its traditionally male presence?
The logistics sector is predominantly male, that is true.
I remember very well when my mother and I, immediately after my father’s passing, started introducing ourselves and communicating that we would continue Viamar’s work. It was not easy. We had to fight hard to remove any doubt that two women could successfully run a company like ours in an industry like this.
But women are known for their tenacity and determination, and now, after almost ten years, the people who work with us, from customers to partners and suppliers, no longer see just two women, a wife or a daughter, but two entrepreneurs.
What I would say to any young woman who wants to pursue a career in this field is: do it.
Prejudices exist and probably always will, but as with everyone, men or women, passion, determination, and perseverance are what help you achieve your goals and overcome the obstacles along the way.
You’ve been with us for a few months now – how has your journey been so far? Any highlights or surprises?
Being part of a network like yours is a great opportunity for us.
It makes it easier to find new partners around the world, develop new trades and, above all, meet new people.
I expect great things!
What’s one resource or feature within the network you think more members should take advantage of?
I believe one of the best ways to work well and continue improving is to support each other, making use of the experience and skills that each member company has developed over time.
The network should be used as a foundation for creating strong, valuable, and mutually beneficial bonds and partnerships.
What’s a surprising skill, passion, or hobby you have outside work?
Outside of work, one of my greatest passions is the gym.
Besides keeping me healthy, it helps me release stress. It is also a place where I have built many relationships, so no matter how physically tired I may be, it always helps me mentally and emotionally.
I also love food and take every opportunity to taste dishes from different cultures. I love to travel as well, and I am lucky because my job gives me this opportunity.
In my free time, I try to spend as much time as possible with my family and friends, sharing experiences and creating memories together.
Thank you, Chiara, for sharing your story and insights with us. We are proud to have Viamar Transit as part of the Apollo network
