stephen thorogood

In this role I assumed accountability for all freight forwarding operations in the Victorian market covering Sea and Air Freight import logistics, customs brokerage, customer service and warehouse operations. In this management focussed position I conceived and implemented a new structure based on empowerment and growth, supported by substantial improvements to work flows and interdepartmental collaboration. On the client side, I was instrumental in leading change initiatives that altered the customer service model to create a more individualised service experience and response whilst also developing a consultative approach to business development and meeting the needs of customers.

During this period my role was expanded well beyond the function of sales development - I also managed the warehouse operations and represented AFIF on a government supported committee that pioneered electronic processing as the industry was investigating a full move away from paper based documentation. As the warehouse was new I focussed much of my attention on business development securing incremental business in excess of 2M to position and oversee a profitable facility.

Continued to drive business growth introducing a series of value-added services that created a point of difference with competitors and delivered growth year on year.

During this period I established myself as an integral member of the management team and worked closely with the business owner to build volumes, revenue and distribution reach. In so doing I helped to position the company for takeover by ISS and transitioned to the new company with a continued focus on global business development.

Developed an intimate understanding of customs clearance where I developed a reputation for expertise, solving difficult problems, improving process efficiencies and contributing to bottom line profit through effective management of all customs activities and related functions.

Having now completed my customs brokerage studies and achieved my Customs Brokerage Licence I continued to develop practical experience specialising in customs clearance and brokerage.

Commenced my career primarily moving through customs clearance, export and import airfreight operations.

Following success in a number of key operational and business development roles I was promoted to the State Branch management role and was ultimately recognised for sustained success achieving Branch of the Year status for the year 2007. My impact was varied but heavily focussed towards business growth through retention and incremental revenue where I was able to slate a 125% top line growth rate to drive ne revenue in excess of $35M. Most importantly was the positive profit impact whereby I oversaw 320% growth to actually double profit as a ratio to sales. In this role I led a staffing complement of over 90 people.

In this role I had accountability for the Victorian Sea Freight and Air Freight import operations. I focussed on designing and implementing a structure that would facilitate leadership growth and exposure to provide a pool of talent capable of advancing through the business. On an operational level I substantially changed the freight forwarding operations and placed emphasis on work flow management, planning and interaction with involved departments across the business delivering efficiency improvements in time, accuracy and customer satisfaction ratings.