Schenker to add mining sector focus

Recently appointed CEO of Schenker South Africa, Denzil Nair, is upbeat about the year ahead after what he describes as an exceptionally strong start. Sub-Saharan Africa is expected to feature strongly in future plans with Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Mozambique already markets of strong focus. In terms of sectoral opportunity, the company will be targeting the mining sector and is currently recruiting a mining specialist to head up the division – with particular focus on opportunities in Africa. The automotive industry will continue to play a key role in its growth and development, particularly in light of the new Automotive Production and Development Programme, says Nair. But in his new role, the first priority will be to ensure that the correct management team is in place. “We also need to ensure that we have the right strategy and that our strategy aligns with the global strategy and supports its long-term goals.” Part of this will be a strong focus on training and human development, says Nair. “It’s not about a skills shortage. Last year we had 23 trainees, this year we have 30 on our development programme. Through our webbased system we’re able to provide an integrated training approach.” And integration is a recurrent theme in the company’s approach to logistics. “With a growing warehouse footprint in South Africa we are able to sell a truly integrated logistics solution to our customers,” says Nair.