'Best time ever to embark on a career in freight’

THE FOCUS on professionalism in the freight industry is probably at its zenith with training and career development in stronger contention than ever before. “Historically training was very random with mentorship rather than formalised career guidance the norm,” says UPS director Thore Saether. But that’s no longer the case, with funding through the Transport Education and Training Authority (Teta) and government apprenticeship schemes or learnerships creating a new climate of change. “It’s probably the best time ever to be embarking on a career in freight. “Every year we have a host of our staff moving through these schemes with a very high success rate – which is good for the country and the industry.” But it’s a question of catch-up at a time when the economy is growing – which all adds up to a severe skills gap. “There has been a big increase in salaries because of the skills shortage even though we are training more staff than ever before. Coupled with this, competitive forces have pushed up the level of competence required and we are certainly seeing a demand for key individuals likes sales and operations staff.” The result has been a sharp upward trend in headhunting and staff poaching. “It’s an aggressive way of resolving staff issues, but we believe in having a plan and a training programme so that you address the cause rather than the symptom.” And Saether believes that there are some individuals who look beyond the salary package. “UPS offers a wide scope of opportunity to people who want a career in the industry. “We have the advantage of size and scale as well as an international training programme.” The company has always had a very strong training ethic with all staff - from the MD down – required to participate in a range of courses from leadership training to supply chain and logistics. Promotion or career enhancement is closely linked to ongoing education. As for the outlook, there’s little chance of a shortterm solution. “We’re in an economic boom and there’s a growing middle class with the growth in the economy generally focused on 2010.” All of which adds up to a continued squeeze on qualified staff.