Employee Spotlight: Chatting with Asha Kallah

Get to know one of Unsworth's Key Account Manager's, Asha Kallah, with our insightful Q&A on her career journey and life in logistics. Discover her winding path taking her from role to role, becoming a true asset to not only Unsworth, but the freight industry.

Can you share a bit about your journey in the freight forwarding industry? What led you to pursue this field, and how has your experience evolved over the years??

It all started at London Heathrow, where I began my journey with BTA International, funnily enough, doing clearances for Unsworth. I then took on a role at Unsworth in 1991 as an Imports Team Leader, moving into Supervisor roles and finding my way to my current position as Key Account Manager. I’ve always liked speaking to customers, getting to know them and their challenges, and really getting hands on, which is why these types of roles have always stuck.?

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What draws you to the customer-facing side of things???

It always feels far more rewarding helping a client overcome their challenges when you’ve built a strong relationship with them. Understanding pain-points and coming up with solutions and workarounds is very fulfilling.??

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As a long-standing team member, how have you witnessed the transformation of our company culture???

As someone who has been here for 30-odd years, it’s always great to welcome new starters as it’s a chance to absorb new information and fresh insights. Here, the learning never stops and that’s something I appreciate.??

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Are there core values or traditions that have stood the test of time??

Oh, definitely! Being a family-run business, we understand the importance of working together as a team, as well as with our clients, partners, and stakeholders, so our core values run deep. We have continuously pushed the boundaries of the freight forwarding industry, leveraging new technology to streamline processes and enhance customer experiences. Collaboration is the driving force behind our company's success and our commitment extends to building lasting relationships with our customers, becoming a trusted partner in their supply chain journey.?

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Freight forwarding can be a fast-paced industry, especially amongst global crises and challenges. How do you maintain composure under pressure??

I like to consider myself cool, calm and collected but my team can often be my anchor, further helping to regain focus. Freight management is not smooth sailing, from a pandemic to Red Sea disruption, there can be a lot of pressure. However, I know that I just need to help steer our clients through turbulent times with alternative options, optimised routes and the best customer service. No storm is weathered by kicking off; instead, I relish finding solutions to challenges, turning frustrations into stepping stones.?

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You mentioned the importance of your team. Team dynamics play a big role in our success so could you share a memorable team-building activity that brought colleagues closer together??

Back in my Team Leader days, daily quick-fire meetings set the tone. These were essential for us, as we could rendezvous about our tasks or challenges for the day ahead, as well as building a real support system between ourselves. For example, if there was an issue with port health, communication or deliveries, we were able to work together efficiently to create a solution. We learned from each other as well as leant on each other and this short but sweet task became a valuable team-building activity.?

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Could you share a moment when you felt most proud to be part of company milestones and achievements??

Every Unsworth award is a moment of pride, a celebration to cherish. Watching our team walk on stage and collect an award or to hear the cheers for our success from others in the industry is a feeling like no other. We’ve gained prestigious accolades such as WCA’s Best European Partner and BIFA’s Freight Service Awards during my time here. To be a part of these achievements is fantastic.??

And what about a cherished memory from your time here? A team celebration or unforgettable moment??

The social events have always been good fun! Be it cruising on a coach to Calais for a Christmas bash or setting sail on the scenic Henley on Thames—I’ve got some good memories with Unsworth.?

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With your diverse roles, what advice would you offer to someone stepping into the industry??

Embark with an open mind. As someone who’s been in a variety of roles, let the challenges guide your growth and development. There are opportunities abound, so embrace your journey with enthusiasm and see where it takes you.?