
In this edition of Apollo in the Spotlight, we meet Mounir Ghrairi of Aubertrans in Paris, France, and take a closer look at the experience, mindset, and values that have shaped his career in logistics.
From starting out in sea freight in 1992 to working across customs clearance, trucking, air freight, warehousing, and specialized logistics, Mounir has built his approach around clarity, resilience, and continuous improvement.
In this interview, he shares his views on today’s biggest logistics challenges, the importance of innovation, what makes the industry so rewarding, and why logistics can create an impact far beyond business.
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 wasn’t planned at all. I began in this field in 1992, first learning sea freight, then customs clearance, trucking, and air freight, as well as logistics and warehousing activities, followed by more specialized niches such as AOG, Time Critical, and Fine Arts.
It grew naturally from real operational needs. I started by helping companies structure their flows, manage their transport constraints, and solve very concrete problems.
Step by step, I realized how essential logistics is: it’s the invisible engine behind every business.
What began as a practical necessity became a passion for optimization, reliability, and service excellence.
What do you see as the biggest challenge in logistics today, and how do you think the industry is handling it?
The biggest challenge today is complexity: unpredictable supply chains, rising costs, regulatory pressure, and customer expectations that keep increasing.
The industry is responding with digitalization, better data visibility, and stronger collaboration between actors.
But the real challenge is human: attracting and retaining people who can manage complexity with clarity and resilience.
What does innovation mean to you in the context of logistics, and how do you foster it in your organization?
Innovation, for me, means making things simpler, faster, and more reliable. It’s not only about technology; it’s about mindset.
In my organization, I foster innovation by encouraging transparency, questioning old habits, and empowering people to propose improvements.
Small optimizations often create the biggest impact.
What do you enjoy most about the logistics industry, and what makes your role particularly fulfilling?
I enjoy the fact that logistics is real: every decision has a direct impact on people, clients, and operations.
My role is fulfilling because it combines strategy and action. I can design a process in the morning and see it improve performance in the afternoon.
That immediacy, that tangible value, is what makes this industry unique.
Could you describe a difficult moment in your career that shaped the way you work today?
One defining moment was managing a major operational disruption where everything seemed to fail at once: suppliers, transport, and deadlines.
I learned that in logistics, calm decision-making and structured communication are more valuable than speed.
Since then, I’ve built my work philosophy around anticipation, clarity, and resilience.
You’ve been with us for a few months now – how has your journey been so far? Any highlights or surprises?
It’s been a very positive journey. I’ve discovered a team that is both professional and genuinely collaborative.
The biggest highlight is how quickly trust was established. It allowed me to contribute meaningfully from day one.
The pleasant surprise is the openness to new ideas; it creates a dynamic environment where improvement is truly welcomed.
If you had to describe this network to a new contact or colleague in one sentence, what would you say?
A powerful network where expertise, collaboration, and real operational support come together to create meaningful impact.
What’s a surprising skill, passion, or hobby you have outside of work?
I’m passionate about humanitarian impact, especially water access projects in developing regions.
It’s a personal commitment that keeps me grounded and reminds me why operational excellence matters, because logistics can change lives far beyond business.
Thank you, Mounir, for sharing your journey, insights, and perspective with us. It is a pleasure featuring you in Apollo in the Spotlight.